Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks Approves the Terms of Reference for the Waasigan Transmission Line

 

The new transmission line will bring an additional 350 megawatts of power to support expected growth in the northwest region

TORONTO, MARCH 21, 2022 – Today, Hydro One announced Ontario’s Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks (MECP) has approved the amended Terms of Reference (ToR) for the proposed Waasigan Transmission Line between the Municipality of Shuniah, Town of Atikokan and City of Dryden. The approved ToR sets out the framework for how the Environmental Assessment (EA) will proceed, including the process to select a preferred project route, the environmental studies to be completed, planned engagement activities, and how the requirements of the Environmental Assessment Act will be met. 

“This is an important milestone and exciting step in the planning and development process for the Waasigan Transmission Line project,” said David Lebeter, Chief Operating Officer, Hydro One. “We recognize the potential for economic growth that exists in the northwest, and we’re committed to doing the work now so we can ensure power is available when it’s needed. As a part of Hydro One’s journey towards Reconciliation, the Waasigan Transmission Line will be developed together with Indigenous communities to ensure mutual benefits are realized for this project and beyond.”

Northwest Ontario plays a major role in the success of Canada’s mining industry, and the Waasigan Transmission Line will bring an additional 350 megawatts of power to the region, which is enough power for approximately 11 new average sized mines. Waasigan will also support economic and community growth, and create spin-off benefits for the local labour market and supply chain.

The next step in the process is the Notice of Commencement for the EA. Engagement activities are ongoing, and the company will host open houses this spring. 

To access the ToR, or to learn more about the Waasigan Transmission Line project, please visit: www.HydroOne.com/Waasigan.

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Hydro One Limited (TSX: H)

Hydro One Limited, through its wholly-owned subsidiaries, is Ontario's largest electricity transmission and distribution provider with approximately 1.5 million valued customers, approximately $30.4 billion in assets as at December 31, 2021, and annual revenues in 2021 of approximately $7.2 billion.

Our team of approximately 9,300 skilled and dedicated employees proudly build and maintain a safe and reliable electricity system which is essential to supporting strong and successful communities. In 2021, Hydro One invested approximately $2.1 billion in its transmission and distribution networks, and supported the economy through buying approximately $1.7 billion of goods and services.

We are committed to the communities where we live and work through community investment, sustainability and diversity initiatives. We are designated as a Sustainable Electricity Company by the Canadian Electricity Association.

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