MANITOBA CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE IN ACTION
from residents and businesses drawn to Manitoba’s clean, affordable power. It also emphasized a simple truth: without reliable, cost-effective supply, energy- intensive sectors cannot grow. No single energy source will be enough. Hydro has anchored Manitoba’s clean energy advantage, but new projects are expensive and vulnerable to drought. Wind and solar offer strong potential but remain intermittent. Small modular reactors (SMRs) could deliver steady around-the-clock electricity, and Manitoba’s legacy in nuclear research makes us a credible candidate for development, but high costs, technology readiness and community acceptance mean SMRs are a longer-term option rather than an immediate fix. Efficiency matters too. The cheapest energy is the energy we don’t use, and expanded conservation programs can help manage demand while new supply comes online. Manitoba’s clean energy advantage is enviable, but it is not permanent. As businesses navigate an ever- changing landscape, clean energy has shifted from being a competitive edge to becoming an economic imperative. If we move boldly, we can position our province as a hub for industry, AI innovation and sustainable growth. If we wait, we risk watching opportunity flow elsewhere. ■
Green Economy Road Map
23 WINTER 2025
Powered by FlippingBook