Ontario is preparing for economic growth in the coming years by taking action now on future electricity needs. — Photo courtesy Independent Electricity System Operator
The Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO) has requested Hydro One Inc. start development work for a new electricity transmission line in northwestern Ontario that will support future economic growth.
Beginning development work now will ensure the region is well positioned to provide reliable electricity supply to new businesses and other Ontario consumers in the northwest. A need for new electricity supply could emerge as soon as the early 2020s if there is high growth in the mining sector, including the Ring of Fire.
"We look out over the next 20 years as part of our electricity planning," says Leonard Kula, Vice-President of Planning, Resources and Acquisition at the IESO. "Taking action today will lay the groundwork so that communities, businesses and Indigenous peoples in the northwest have a reliable supply of electricity in the years ahead when the regional economy grows."
Development work includes preliminary design and engineering, cost estimation, public engagement and consultation, routing and siting, as well as an Environmental Assessment. Completion of development work will shorten project lead time, and the IESO will continue to monitor electricity demand in the region to determine if and when construction should begin.
The new line will help transmit power from Thunder Bay to Atikokan and could be extended further northwest to Dryden in later years if electricity demand continues to increase. Hydro One is being asked to conduct development work now for the entire route.
"Hydro One has a long history of working in northern Ontario. Our team is ready to begin working on the plan for this new transmission line and we are looking forward to working with the communities and Indigenous communities in the project area," said Andrew Spencer, Vice President Transmission and Stations, Hydro One. "Hydro One is committed to developing a project that benefits the people who call northern Ontario their home."
More information on the transmission line and electricity planning in the northwest is available here.
The IESO manages the province's power system so that Ontarians receive power when and where they need it. It plans and prepares for future electricity needs and works with its partners to guide energy efficiency efforts.
