Manitoba Hydro, Great River Energy sign 200MW seasonal power exchange agreement

Canada-based Manitoba Hydro has signed a 200MW power exchange agreement with Great River Energy.

The seasonal diversity exchange agreement, which will expire in 2030, extends a 150MW contract that the two utilities signed in 1995.

Under the contact, Manitoba Hydro will supply 200MW of hydropower generation capacity to Great River Energy during the summer period, while Great River Energy will deliver 200MW of capacity to Manitoba Hydro in the winter season.

Great River Energy vice president of member services Jon Brekke said that the company is pleased to work with its long-term partner to secure this competitive power generation resource for its member cooperatives.

"Seasonal diversity exchanges like this are a great way for both utilities to share capacity and diversify sources of power supply," Brekke added.

"The exchange makes use of existing transmission lines between the utilities, and helps ensure a more secure, stable and affordable energy future for our members."

Brekke further said that the agreement with Hydro allows it to further reduce its carbon emissions.

Manitoba Hydro president and CEO Scott Thomson said that this agreement highlights the ongoing importance of transmission interconnections with neighbouring utilities.

"Not only do they allow us to sell excess hydroelectricity which helps keep Manitoba’s rates low, but they ensure that we have the ability to import electricity during periods of drought or during emergencies, enhancing the reliability of electrical service to all our customers," Thomson added.