MAXIM's asset base in western Canada includes eight plants with a total capacity of 192 MW. A number of assets in Alberta provide a significant competitive development advantage – in particular, an existing coal-fired plant (H.R. Milner) that offers a secure supply of coal, water, and transmission resources.
In Alberta, independent forecasts suggest electricity demand will increase at a rate of 1 to 2% per year (or 200 to 250 MW per year). At the same time, aging generating facilities in the province will be retired. The Alberta Electric System Operator (AESO) anticipates 4,000 MW of new generation will be required by 2016 which translates into a 500 MW power plant every year over the next eight years.
In addition, we are creating diversity in our Canadian asset portfolio by pursing highly select, early-stage investment opportunities with long lead-times and significant upside potential. |