Hydro One to hold information sessions on a new power line

Hydro One is preparing for the construction of a 260-km transmission line between Wawa and Timmins, with service expected by the end of 2030.

With demand for electricity expected to increase in Ontario by 75 per cent by 2050, Hydro One is preparing for the construction of a 260-kilometre transmission line between Wawa and Timmins, with service expected by the end of 2030.

Sonny Karunakaran, vice-president of Strategic Projects and Partnership for Hydro One, said the new transmission line will be better for the environment.

“Industries that are presently reliant on certain fossil fuels can have the opportunity to look at decarbonization and conversion of energy, into cleaner sources accordingly,” Karunakaran said.

Open houses

Before work begins, Hydro One will host open houses in Timmins on July 7; in Chapleau on July 8; and, in Wawa on July 9.

All sessions will be open to the public and held at Royal Canadian Legion branches.

Hydro One is also working with nearby First Nations, who can invest in a 50 per cent equity stake in the transmission line component.

“Our communities have been long in the back seat when it comes to industrial development, so we’re so happy to be included 50-50 with our partners at Hydro One,” said Jason Batise, executive director of Wabun Tribal Council.

“Adding our expertise and experience to … advise on things like route selection and ensuring that our communities are comfortable with where the line is going to be and how it’s going to operate.”

Batise said public input is mostly needed on environmental issues to ensure sensitive areas are avoided.