Another technological factor to consider is the complimentary relationship between wind and hydro resources. Wind is typically at peak production in the winter when water levels are low, and vice versa. Use of wind as an adjunct to hydro increases the overall reliability of the system and allows one to get more value from the existing hydro system. Studies in Sweden and Quebec confirm this approach and place a premium value on winter electricity from wind power. We have many suitable wind generation locations and could easily provide a substantial proportion of our demand in this manner.
Some critics alledge that our winds are too erratic - they gust too much or are too powerful.
These critics are out of touch, modern turbines are well-suited to our environment. As mentioned above, these machines operate in a wide range of wind speeds. Moreover, at any speed between the minimum and maximum, the turbine produces a steady output at its rated capacity. In preparation of our original proposal, it was determined from long-term wind data that on only 6.7 days out a 183 winter days would there be insufficient wind to operate. When wind power is operated as part of a grid, as proposed, then using wind when its available means you don't have to use other sources.