Manitoba Government Appoints New Board Chairs for Manitoba Hydro and Efficiency Manitoba

Press Release

December 16, 2025

The Manitoba government has appointed new leadership to the boards of Manitoba Hydro and Efficiency Manitoba, Finance Minister Adrian Sala, minister responsible for Manitoba Hydro, and Environment and Climate Change Minister Mike Moyes, minister responsible for Efficiency Manitoba, announced today.

James Wilson has been appointed chair of the Manitoba Hydro board of directors, following his service as vice-chair. Nicole Chabot, who is currently serving on the board of directors, has now been named vice-chair.

“Manitoba Hydro is the crown jewel of our province and the key to building an affordable life, a dynamic economy and a clean energy future,” said Sala. “I’m pleased to welcome James Wilson into his new role as chair. Not only does he bring an important perspective to Manitoba Hydro’s governance as the utility’s first Indigenous chair, but he also understands the significance of a utility that is invested in Indigenous communities, in creating good jobs and an affordable life for working people and in Manitoba’s broader economic development.”

The government also announced new appointments to the Efficiency Manitoba board. Duane Nicol has been named chair and Cindy Choy has been named vice-chair, with both having previously served as board members. Leilani Esteban Villarba has been appointed as a new board member of Efficiency Manitoba.

“Duane Nicol brings the expertise of a successful career in municipal governance and has spearheaded local efforts to find practical clean energy solutions for municipalities and Manitobans,” said Moyes. “With him at the helm, Efficiency Manitoba will continue to build toward a sustainable and affordable energy future for our province.”

Both ministers thanked departing board chairs, Ben Graham of Manitoba Hydro and Jeanette Montufar of Efficiency Manitoba, as well as outgoing Manitoba Hydro board member Mike Spence for their dedication and leadership.

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BACKGROUND INFORMATION ATTACHED

For more information:

• Public information, contact Manitoba Government Inquiry: mgi@gov.mb.ca or 1-866-626-4862 or 204-945-3744.
• Media requests for general information, contact Communications and Engagement: newsroom@gov.mb.ca.
• Media requests for ministerial comment, contact Cabinet Communications: cabcom@manitoba.ca.

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