Churchill Falls Upgrades
The Churchill Falls upgrade project will increase generation capacity by approximately 1,275 megawatts through improvements to existing generating units, boosting output by 23.5 per cent. Supported by federal investment tax credits, the upgrades will enhance the performance and longevity of the facility while maximizing the value of an existing renewable energy asset.
- Targeting 23.5 per cent increase at Churchill Falls through upgrades to existing units
- Additional 1,275 MW
- Estimated capital cost $4.8 billion, federal ITCs to 2040
- One unit upgraded/year (2032-2042)
Gull Island
The Gull Island hydroelectric project is a major new renewable energy development that will add 2,700 megawatts of generating capacity through six new units. Expected to create more than 5,000 jobs during peak construction, the project will be built by Hydro-Quebec and operated by Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro, providing significant economic and energy benefits while strengthening the province’s position as a clean energy supplier.
- More power – 2,700 MW, six units
- Over 5,000 jobs at peak construction
- Estimated capital cost $29.1 billion, with federal loan guarantee and Investment Tax Credits (ITCs) to 2040
- Full in-service by 2037
Labrador Transmission
The Labrador transmission projects will expand the province’s electricity network to support new hydroelectric generation, mining development, and future industrial growth. The investments include new 735-kV transmission lines connecting Gull Island, Churchill Falls, Labrador West, and export markets, with Newfoundland and Labrador retaining ownership of the infrastructure and benefiting from significant federal support.
- NL Transmission in Labrador – $5.9 billion
- Labrador West – 735 kV line from Churchill Falls to serve mining customers, future growth
- Estimated $2.6 billion
- $1 billion (2026 NPV) federal support, investments, ITCs or equivalent support
- In service no earlier than 2032
- Gull Island – 735 kV lines to Churchill Falls, and border
Wind Development
The proposed wind development initiative will examine the feasibility of up to 2,000 megawatts of new wind generation in Labrador, creating opportunities for economic growth, Indigenous participation, and clean energy exports. Supported by federal incentives and an upfront commitment from Hydro-Quebec as the primary off-taker, the project could become an important component of the province’s renewable energy portfolio.
- Estimated capital cost of $8 billion
- Feasibility study for 2,000 MW development
- Potential for Indigenous participation
- Hydro-Quebec, as majority off-taker, prepays $400,000 per MW upfront payment to Government of Newfoundland and Labrador
- Federal material ownership, ITCs to 2040 and $1 billion investment or equivalent