Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew unveils plans for three major energy projects, including a Churchill port expansion, projected to drive $30B in growth.
Ambitious vision for Manitoba’s economy
On Saturday, Wab Kinew, Premier of Manitoba, announced the province is advancing three large-scale “megaprojects” across the energy and infrastructure sectors, which he said could generate up to $30 billion in new economic activity — a level equal to more than a third of Manitoba’s current gross domestic product.
Project scope and status
One of the three initiatives is a planned expansion of the Port of Churchill, which would require federal funding from the Government of Canada. Kinew said the port project “has been very public”. He described the second project as having financing in progress, and the third as “almost certainly going to happen” — but declined to name either of the remaining two projects or provide further detail.
Timeline and location
These projects are to take place in Manitoba within the next five to ten years, Kinew said, with the goal of transitioning the province from a “have-not” to a “have” status. The expansion of the Port of Churchill would be located in northern Manitoba, while the energy-sector projects would be spread across the province. He made the remarks on a podcast hosted by David Herle, and later spoke to reporters from his office.
Rationale behind the push
Manitoba’s current generating capacity is about 6 100 megawatts through Manitoba Hydro. The Crown utility has warned that demand and connection requirements for new industrial operations — including data-centres and other energy-intensive facilities — could outstrip capacity within the next four years. The mega-project plan is intended to bridge that gap and stimulate economic growth.
Implications and funding challenges
To realise the port expansion and energy projects, substantial funding will be required — including federal contributions and capital investment for infrastructure and energy generation. Kinew reiterated Manitoba’s aim to wean off federal transfer payments by 2040, but offered no detailed breakdown of how the new revenue would be generated. Critics say the announcements lack concrete timelines, funding commitments and transparent plans.
Reception and next steps
Obby Khan, Leader of the Opposition Progressive Conservative Party of Manitoba, dismissed the announcement as a “big flashy” promise without backing: “No dates, no timeline and no plan,” he said in an interview. Meanwhile, Manitoba Hydro is already pursuing partnerships with Indigenous-led power companies to add 600 megawatts and seeking regulatory approval for another 500 megawatt fuel-burning plant as interim capacity measures.
