Vitality of Quebec's Wind Energy Industry Affirmed

MONTREAL, July 8 /CNW Telbec/ - The Canadian Wind Energy Association (CanWEA) is pleased to see the number of projects proposed in response to the call for tenders for wind energy from aboriginal or community projects. Bids for wind energy projects submitted to Hydro-Québec represent more than 1,000 MW - almost double the required quantity (2 x 250 MW) specified in the call for tenders.

"This is excellent news for Quebec, as well as for its various communities and regions. As further proof of the vitality of Quebec's wind energy sector, it also affirms Hydro-Québec's leadership role in the country," stressed Robert Hornung, President of CanWEA.

Bids were submitted by 16 different proponents for more than 44 projects, both aboriginal and community. "The contracts awarded by Hydro-Québec will generate almost $1.4 billion in investment, of which close to $850 million will be invested directly in the regions' economies. Add job creation and regional economic development to these benefits, and all of Quebec comes out a winner," Hornung concluded.

About CanWEA

CanWEA is the voice of Canada's wind energy industry, actively promoting the responsible and sustainable growth of wind energy on behalf of its more than 400 members. This national non-profit association serves as Canada's leading source of credible information about wind energy and its social, economic and environmental benefits. To join the ranks of the world's other wind energy industry leaders, CanWEA believes that Canada can and must reach its target of producing 20 per cent or more of the country's electricity from wind by 2025. The publication Wind Vision 2025 - Powering Canada's Future is available at www.canwea.ca.

For further information: Information: Philippe Roy, 514 531-4104; Ulrike Kucera, Media Relations, CanWEA, O: 613 234-8716, ext. 228, M: 613 867-4433