The Manitoba government has announced that it has issued a new directive to Manitoba Hydro to bring back some of its electricity exports to help power nation-building projects in Canada.
“Manitoba is a province of builders and we are stepping up to help build our nation as we weather the economic uncertainty we are all facing right now,” said Premier Wab Kinew. “There is no better time to be partnering with other Canadian provinces and territories to build the infrastructure we need for a strong domestic economy.”
Hydro’s expiring export contracts worth 500 megawatts (MW) of power will be redirected to help infrastructure projects in Manitoba and Canada. This directive includes setting aside 50 MW towards the development of the Kivalliq Hydro-Fibre Link.
The Kivalliq Hydro-Fibre Link is an infrastructure project that has the potential to bring power and telecommunications infrastructure to northern communities, reducing dependence on diesel fuel and creating economic opportunity by powering mines, noted the premier.
“This commitment by the Province of Manitoba is true nation-building that makes Canada stronger,” said Anne-Raphaëlle Audouin, chief executive officer, Nukik Corporation. “Working together we can unlock sustainable economic development opportunities, build stronger communities and support Arctic sovereignty and security. We look forward to working in partnership to build a more connected Canada.”
The province will continue to engage with Nunavut, Nukik and other partners to advance the project, identify other opportunities for economic development and build on existing collaborations to foster cultural and economic development, noted the premier.
