Retrofitting their electricity infrastructure, the Ontario government is making giant strides towards a smart grid. These priority designations are for a new transmission line between SE-MO and Arkansas and two other, unrelated projects. This initiative will help meet a growing demand for electricity in the province. It’s just one piece of a larger strategy that covers the next 25 years.
Hydro One’s fortunes in turn are deeply tied to the success of Ontario’s electricity system as a whole. With the demand for electric power persistently growing the government is looking to improve its transmission capacity. The projects they have proposed will be central to the province’s energy needs over the next few decades. They are purposely crafted to do so.
Proposed Transmission Line Projects
A frequently mentioned exemplar project is a new double-circuit 500kV-long-haul transmission line. This new line is expected to connect the new Bowmanville switching station to either the Claireville TS or Cherrywood TS transformer stations. If all goes well, this highly ambitious project could be in revenue service by the early 2030s.
Also included, a new double-circuit 230kV transmission line from Lauzon TS to Lakeshore TS. Providing expansions or upgrades that are desperately needed at terminal stations along the corridor, this project is fully expected to be completed by 2032. These improvements are essential to prepare for the increased demand for electricity we are expecting in the coming decades. They further set the stage for future nuclear growth in southern Ontario.
Ontario’s Minister of Energy and Mines, Stephen Lecce, has directed the Ontario Energy Board to amend Hydro One Networks’ transmission licence, enabling these projects to move forward effectively.
Importance of Partnerships
The government’s commitment to prioritize these transmission lines emphasizes its intent to build strong partnerships, particularly with First Nations communities. David Lebeter, COO of Hydro One, was optimistic about these types of collaborations, saying,
“This designation marks another opportunity for Hydro One to invest in Ontario and partner with First Nations and communities to build a strong and secure electricity grid.”
Kelly LaRocca, chief of the Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the long-term significance of such partnerships. She remarked,
“The partnerships we build today are partnerships that will power future generations.”
Hydro One and local communities have a shared and more expansive vision of what’s possible. Together, they are dedicated to creating a healthy, renewable energy economy in Ontario.
Preparing for Future Demand
Ontario is in the midst of a major electricity supply shortage. These new, positive, transmission monoculture projects are central to this virtuous and dynamic province’s energy strategic plan. The government’s decision to grant priority status to these lines reinforces its commitment to providing reliable energy solutions for residents and businesses alike.
Further, huge expected increases in demand are on the way. To answer this challenge, Ontario should make significant investments in high quality, all-day, two-way infrastructure to meet present demand and accommodate further growth. The planned projects signify a proactive approach to energy management, ensuring that the province remains equipped to handle evolving challenges in electricity supply.