AUTO Vista was utilized to assess the detailed hourly operations of the combined hydroelectric resources (15 plants, 5000-MW) and wind power generation facilities over a full year. The study evaluates the effects of integrating wind into hydro operations for Manitoba Hydro. The objectives of this study were to specifically address short-term costs and system response to wind. An integral part of this study focused on the costs attributable to wind variability, uncertainty and the additional reserves needed to accommodate wind in the Manitoba Hydro system.

AUTO Vista represents the hydro operations, transmission constraints, the external energy sources (e.g. wind, thermal) and the reserve requirement for several hydrologic years.