Minnesota Signs Deal With Manitoba Hydro
WINNIPEG -- - The Minnesota Public Utilities Commission has unanimously approved a $1.7 billion power export deal with Manitoba Hydro.
It allows Minneapolis-based Xcel Energy to import power from Manitoba Hydro, despite the objections of aboriginal groups.
The 500-megawatt, 10-year deal was given the go-ahead.
It's an extension of an existing deal and will allow power to be exported until 2015.
Approval by Canada's National Energy Board is pending.
The Minnesota decision is a blow to the Pimicikamak Cree Nation of Cross Lake, Manitoba. They had asked the commission to first call a formal hearing into the social and economic impact of historic hydro development on their homeland.
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Consumers Coalition wants Manitoba Hydro?s proposed rate increase rejected
WINNIPEG - Manitoba Hydro Interim Rate Increase faces PUB scrutiny as consumers coalition challenges a 5% electricity rate hike, citing drought planning, retained earnings, affordability, transparency, and impacts on fixed incomes and northern communities.
Key Points
A proposed 5% electricity rate hike under PUB review, opposed by consumers citing drought planning and affordability.
✅ Coalition backs 2% hike; 5% seen as undue burden
✅ PUB review sought; interim process lacks transparency
✅ Retained earnings, efficiencies cited to offset drought
The Consumers Coalition is urging the Public Utilities Board (PUB) to reject Manitoba Hydro’s current interim rate increase application,…