Man., Sask. governments go on power play
Provinces agree to build more transmission lines and double power supply
Last Updated: Tuesday, March 9, 2010 | 1:23 PM ET
CBC News
Manitoba Hydro Minister Rosann Wowchuk (left) and Saskatchewan Energy Minister Bill Boyd announce a deal to boost power transmission in both provinces. (CBC)The Manitoba and Saskatchewan governments have agreed to more than double the capacity of the power grid that connects the two provinces.
Saskatchewan Energy Minister Bill Boyd said a preliminary deal has been signed that will eventually see new transmission lines and other infrastructure built, so that power can flow either way — depending on demand.
The aim is to add 150 megawatts — enough electricity to power 150,000 homes — to the grid's current capacity of 105 megawatts.
Saskatchewan needs to strengthen its energy supply because of the province's growing population and economy, Boyd said Tuesday, following a meeting in Winnipeg with Manitoba Hydro Minister Rosann Wowchuk.
'The agreement reached today builds on the first-ever joint cabinet meeting held last month between our two governments.'—Manitoba Hydro Minister Rosann Wowchuk
The two ministers agreed to create a working group, consisting of expert representatives from Manitoba Hydro and SaskPower, to develop a framework on how the two jurisdictions can co-operate on green power development.
The first priority of the working group will be to determine how to boost the power transmission in both provinces by that goal of 150 megawatts.
In addition to addressing the heightened demand as noted by Boyd, the extra power will also help in the event of a shortage caused by a storm or drought, said Wowchuk.
"The agreement reached today builds on the first-ever joint cabinet meeting held last month between our two governments," she said.
"This working group will be charged with exploring ways to increase renewable energy development in both provinces which is a win-win that will build transmission capacity on the prairies."
The working group is scheduled to report back to both governments this fall with details on how the power grid can be completed, when it can be done, and how much it will cost.
With files from The Canadian PressShare Tools
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