Calgary: The National Energy Board issued its decision November 15 approving the Manitoba Hydro – Manitoba-Minnesota Transmission Project, subject to 28 conditions, and the approval of the Governor in Council.
Manitoba Hydro applied for authorization under Canada’s NEB Act to construct and operate a 500 kV international power line extending 213 km from the Winnipeg area to the U.S. border in southeastern Manitoba including upgrades to three existing electrical stations in southern Manitoba. Approximately 92 km of the proposed route is located within existing transmission line corridors. The remaining 121 km requires a new right-of-way.
The purpose of the project is to increase export and import capability between Manitoba and the U.S. This is expected to generate incremental revenues for the province and enhance reliability.
There are 84 international power lines between Canada and the United States. In 2015, these power lines transmitted $3.4 billion dollars’ worth of electricity.