Ontario designates Hydro One to build the Greenstone Transmission Line

Executive Summary

• Ontario’s Energy Minister designated Hydro One Networks Inc. to develop and construct the Greenstone Transmission Line, a new 230‑kV priority transmission line in northern Ontario.
• The project will be built in partnership with multiple First Nations, offering them up to a 50 % equity stake in the transmission line component.
• Expected in‑service date is 2032; the line will enhance electricity reliability for seven northern communities and support future mining and economic development in the region.

Key Details

• Project Scope: Single‑circuit 230‑kV transmission line, engineered to accommodate a future second circuit; connects to existing 230‑kV East‑West Tie near Nipigon Bay and extends to Longlac Transformer Station, then to a new 230‑kV switching station near Aroland First Nation.
• Capacity & Reliability: Provides additional capacity and improves reliability for northern communities; supports critical mining projects and the Ring of Fire mineral development.
• Equity Partnership Model: First Nations in the area may invest for a 50 % equity stake in the transmission line component under Hydro One’s “First Nation 50‑50 Equity Partnership Model.”
• Timeline: Construction to commence following designation; line slated to be in service by 2032.
• Economic Impact: Anticipated to drive regional economic development, create jobs, and enable Indigenous community growth through ownership and procurement of goods/services from local suppliers.
• Stakeholder Quotes:
• David Lebeter (President & CEO, Hydro One) highlighted the collaborative three‑year effort and the line’s role in building a secure northern electricity system.
• Hon. Stephen Lecce (Ontario Minister of Energy and Mines) linked the project to broader provincial goals of self‑reliance, job creation, and unlocking mineral potential.
• Multiple First Nations chiefs emphasized the importance of reliable power, economic reconciliation, and community prosperity.

Notable Quotes

• “This line is foundational to building a secure and reliable electricity system in the north—one that supports every community in the region.” – David Lebeter, President & CEO, Hydro One
• “We are putting Canada first by accelerating a plan to create 20,000 jobs… unlocking one of the largest undeveloped, high‑grade deposits of critical minerals on earth.” – Hon. Stephen Lecce, Minister of Energy and Mines

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