Hydro One to construct Sudbury-Barrie transmission line

Executive Summary

• The Government of Ontario has directed the Ontario Energy Board to designate Hydro One Networks Inc. as the developer and constructor of a new priority 500-kilovolt transmission line between Sudbury and Barrie.
• The project includes the development of a second new single-circuit 500-kV transmission line to support new-generation opportunities in Northern Ontario, strengthen grid reliability, and prepare for future growth.
• The project incorporates a First Nations equity partnership model, allowing proximate First Nations to invest in a 50% equity stake in the transmission line component.

Key Details

• Project Scope: Development and construction of a new single-circuit 500-kilovolt transmission line spanning approximately 300 kilometres.
• Route: From the Hanmer transformer station in Sudbury to the Essa TS near Barrie, including associated station facility expansions.
• In-Service Date: The primary line is expected to be in service in 2032.
• Second Line: The designation also includes direction to complete development work for a second new single-circuit 500-kilovolt transmission line. A recommended in-service date for this second line will be determined by the Independent Electricity System Operator.
• Strategic Purpose: Connect to new sources of generation, unlock opportunities to add electricity capacity, strengthen the backbone of the grid, and support new-generation opportunities in Northern Ontario.
• First Nations Partnership: Hydro One will utilize its First Nations equity partnership model, offering proximate First Nations the opportunity to invest in a 50-per-cent equity stake in the transmission line component. Hydro One and these partners will collaborate on planning, development, and construction.
• Government Support: The project is supported by the Ontario Ministry of Energy and Mines, with a focus on using over 90-per-cent made-in-Canada materials and supporting economic prosperity in Northern Ontario.
• Company Context: Hydro One is Ontario's largest electricity transmission and distribution provider, with 1.5 million valued customers, $36.7-billion in assets (as of Dec. 31, 2024), and 2024 annual revenues of $8.5-billion.

Notable Quotes

• David Lebeter, President and CEO, Hydro One: "Ontario's demand for electricity is increasing, faster than it has in decades. This line will allow us to connect to new sources of generation, unlock opportunities to add electricity capacity to the system and strengthen the backbone of the grid... In partnership with first nations and communities, we will develop this project to reflect local knowledge and priorities, meet demand, power growth and support economic prosperity."
• Sam Oosterhoff, Associate Minister of Energy-Intensive Industries: "Transmission investments are a crucial part of our plan to meet growing electricity demand across Ontario... These new transmission lines will deliver the power needed to support our people and our industries, and they will drive economic growth across Northern Ontario for decades to come."
• Stephen Lecce, Minister of Energy and Mines: "With up to 40 new mines expected to start by 2033 alone, Ontario is building for the future by accelerating a critical transmission line that will energize the North and boost the economy... Built in true partnership with first nations, this new line will significantly increase power flow from the south to the north to improve quality of life and unlock responsible resource development across the north."
• Chief Ted Williams, Chippewas of Rama First Nation: "The project helps unlock the power needed to support economic opportunities and long-term self-reliance for our nation and the region, while contributing to Ontario's broader energy needs."
• Chief Adam Pawis, Shawanaga First Nation: "The 11-member Energy Corridor First Nations recognize that the Sudbury to Barrie transmission corridor must be reinforced to meet future energy needs... We look forward to working with Hydro One as together we jointly contribute to an energy future that is stable and prosperous for the province and for first nations."