What is NNEPI?
In 2004, a co-operative arrangement was formed among cottagers to investigate the possibility of accessing Manitoba Hydro Electric Service for the North Nopiming area. A total of three lakes including Beresford, Long and Wallace were involved with each association appointing its own representative. It was believed the service would be feasible and affordable for participants owing to the existence of a 66KV line which was already in place and actually spans Long Lake at a point known as the Narrows.
What was needed was a cost analysis to provide the necessary substation and infrastructure required to bring the service to the lakes. With financial contributions from the cottagers, the necessary funds were raised to enable Manitoba Hydro to complete the study.
Following receipt of results, Wallace Lake interests decided service to their lake would not be cost effective. As a result Wallace Lake was removed from the equation.
Beresford and Long Lake representatives however continued negotiations with Manitoba Hydro while working co-operatively with each reporting to its own membership.
Finally, at a joint meeting of cottagers from both lakes, it was recommended that an umbrella group be formed to further the matter on behalf of both lakes.
This resulted in the formation and ultimately incorporation of North Nopiming Electrical Project Inc. (NNEPI).
A volunteer Board of Directors was elected to represent the interests of those at both lakes. Efforts by NNEPI were concentrated initially on securing firm costs from Manitoba Hydro for presentation to the leaseholders. An open meeting was held on September 15, 2008 at which time it was determined the project costs were within reason and support was expressed.
Manitoba Hydro electric service to Beresford and Long Lakes is available to all properties. It is not compulsory. It can, however, be accessed at a later date should a leaseholder choose to do so. It is funded by the participants and will continue to be until the debt is retired.
