Ontario’s Minister of Energy and Electrification has directed the Ontario Energy Board to amend Hydro One’s transmission license to develop and construct a new priority transmission line project in northeast Ontario.
The proposed project is a new, 260-kilometer (161-mile), 500-kilovolt (kV) transmission line, initially energized at 230 kV. It is expected to be in service by the end of 2030.
The proposed project is intended to support the “rapid increase” in electricity demand expected in northern Ontario to accommodate the electrification of communities, businesses, and industry, in addition to population growth and economic development activities including advanced manufacturing and mining for critical minerals, Hydro One said. Ontario’s Independent Electricity System Operator has projected that demand for electricity will increase by approximately 75% across Ontario by 2050.
“Electricity is the backbone of our economy and Hydro One provides the power needed to support daily life and attract new growth and investment in communities across the province,” said David Lebeter, president and CEO of Hydro One. “This designation acknowledges how Hydro One has prioritized Indigenous partnerships and reconciliation. We thank the government for their support and will continue to work in collaboration with partners to develop and build this critical line.”
Hydro One was selected as the transmitter responsible for the development of the line after evaluation of its proposal and consultations with Indigenous communities, stakeholders, and the public. Hydro One said it will continue to work with all proximate First Nations who have the opportunity to invest in a 50% equity stake in the transmission line component of the project through Hydro One’s 50-50 equity partnership model.
