KAWARTHA LAKES-Hydro One Inc. (Hydro One) announced it is advancing engagement with Indigenous communities, elected officials, property owners, businesses, residents and other interest groups for the proposed Durham Kawartha Power Line project (formerly known as the Greater Toronto Area East Line).
Later this month, Hydro One will host three community open houses to share project updates, present route details and gather local input. Hydro One and proximate Indigenous communities will continue to collaborate on the early planning and development of the project.
“Integrating local feedback and knowledge from Indigenous partners and the community is vital for the planning and design of the Durham Kawartha Power Line project,” said Sonny Karunakaran, Vice President, Strategic Projects and Partnerships. “Electricity demand in eastern Ontario is expected to grow rapidly over the next 20 years and once built, this transmission line will increase reliability, advance First Nations equity partnerships and promote economic prosperity in the region today and in the future.”
The route for the proposed project prioritizes the use of existing transmission corridors where possible. Route alternatives will be evaluated for a small portion of the line.
Community Open Houses
- Tuesday, June 25, 2024, from 2 to 7 p.m. at Solina Community Hall, 1964 Concession Rd 6, Solina, ON
- Wednesday, June 26, 2024, from 2 to 7 p.m. at Peterborough Lions Community Centre, 347 Burnham St, Peterborough, ON
- Thursday, June 27, 2024, from 2 to 7 p.m. at Bethany United Church, 3 George St, Bethany, ON
Hydro One plans to build a double-circuit 230kV transmission line between Clarington Transformer Station (TS) in the Municipality of Clarington, and Dobbin TS in the City of Peterborough. Once complete, it will increase resiliency and capacity for the Peterborough area and eastern Ontario by more than 400 MW.
“This new transmission line will not only enhance the reliability and resilience of our energy infrastructure but by investing in clean energy transmission, we will be reducing our carbon footprint and contributing to a healthier, greener future for our city,” said Jeff Leal, Mayor of Peterborough. “I am also grateful to Hydro One for their proactive engagement with our residents which underscores their commitment to our community’s needs and priorities.”
As part of the company’s journey of Reconciliation with Indigenous people and communities, Hydro One will offer proximate First Nations a 50 per cent equity stake in the transmission line component of the project and will work to advance the project together in true partnership.
“The Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation is excited to collaborate with Hydro One on advancing the Durham Kawartha Power Line project.” said Chief Kelly LaRocca, Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation. “We are confident this project will provide a long-term investment opportunity for our First Nation and enable procurement opportunities for our businesses such as Voyager Services Limited in electrical construction.”
The Independent Electricity System Operator has recommended that the new transmission line come into service no later than 2029.
