Image Credit: Manitoba Hydro
Ranking for 2019: 6
Industry Sector: Energy
Specific Sector: Hydroelectric
Range: $5 billion +
Project Value: $8,700,000,000
Government Funds Involved: N/A
Funding Source: Public
Location: Lower Nelson River, Manitoba
Estimated End Date of Substantial Completion: Fall 2020
LEED: N/A
This 695-megawatt hydroelectric generating station will be a source of renewable energy, producing an average of 4,400 gigawatt-hours of electricity each year. The scope of work includes rock excavation, concrete for the powerhouse and spillway, earthen structures, electrical and mechanical work, and the construction and removal of temporary cofferdams needed to manage the river flow during construction.
Energy produced will be integrated into Manitoba Hydro’s electric system for use in Manitoba and for export. Keeyask will be Manitoba’s fourth-largest generating station. The design for the project agreement is based on a partnership model between Manitoba Hydro and the four Keeyask Cree Nations, including the Tataskweyak Cree Nation, War Lake First Nation, Fox Lake Cree Nation, and York Factory First Nation.
The past year focused on several key milestones important to the project’s progression, including the completion of earthworks to support river diversion, and the enclosure of powerhouse units 4 and 5. It is expected that, for the calendar year 2018, 105,000 cubic metres of concrete will have been poured.
Construction began in summer 2014. The station’s first unit is scheduled to go into service in the fall of 2020 thanks to solid gains the previous winter.
