The Keeyask Generating Station will have a 695MW capacity and produce on average 4,400GWh of electricity - enough to power 400,000 homes. It will be built for Manitoba Hydro by BBE Hydro Constructors, which comprises Bechtel, Barnard Construction and EllisDon.
BBE Hydro Constructors will be responsible for building a seven-unit powerhouse, earthen structures, rock excavation, electrical and mechanical work, and the construction and removal of temporary cofferdams needed to manage the river flow during construction. Construction on the project is expected to start later this year, subject to regulatory approvals, and the first power from the plant is expected as early as 2019 with final completion scheduled for 2020.
“We are very pleased to have Bechtel on board as part of the group for this contract,” said Bruce Barrett, vice president of Manitoba Hydro. “They know the river, they know the area, and we expect their experience with past projects in Manitoba’s north will be a real benefit to the joint-venture group. Every one of these companies is a leader in their field, and as a group we think they offer real value to the Keeyask Hydropower Limited Partnership and Manitoba Hydro in terms of ensuring that this project is completed safely—as well as on time and on budget.”
“Keeyask is upstream from Limestone, the region’s largest generating station, which we completed ahead of schedule and under budget back in 1992,” said Brian Sedar, manager of Bechtel’s global water business. “We will draw from our experience and look forward to working closely with our partners and Manitoba Hydro to ensuring the success of this project.”
The Keeyask project has been developed by Keeyask Hydropower Limited Partnership, a collaborative effort between Manitoba Hydro and the local communities, including Tataskweyak, York Factory, Fox Lake, and War Lake First Nations, and aims to promote sustainable growth in the region.
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