Chatham-Lakeshore transmission line completed

A new Hydro One transmission line stretching between Chatham-Kent and Lakeshore, Ontario has been completed more than a year ahead of schedule.

 


Chatham-Lakeshore transmission line completed

Image for illustration purposes.

Canada, Ontario: A new Hydro One transmission line stretching between Chatham-Kent and Lakeshore, Ontario has been completed more than a year ahead of schedule, the Ontario government has announced. The 49 km, 230 kV line from the Chatham switching station to the new transformer station in the Municipality of Lakeshore will increase the reliability and resiliency of the grid and bring 400 MW of electricity to the Windsor-Essex region. Electricity demand in the region is expected to more than double over the next 20 years, driven largely by agricultural and industrial growth. The line is part of a larger effort by Ontario to meet this demand.

The government’s focus is on making sure businesses such as the new Stellantis-LG Energy Solutions NextStar battery plant and the growing greenhouse industry have access to reliable and affordable energy and remain competitive in the face of potential US tariffs, said Stephen Lecce, minister of energy and electrification.

“When we’re completing a project on time, it enables us to build public confidence to attract more investment,” he added.

The construction of the line, worth approximately $237 million, began in the spring of 2023. By finishing construction early, the project saved about $30 million dollars.

“This line is the first of five new transmission lines in southwest Ontario that will support growth and security in our local supply chains and continue to make Ontario an attractive place to live and invest,” said David Lebeter, president and chief executive officer of Hydro One.

Chatham-Kent-Leamington MPP Trevor Jones said the project would create hundreds of well-paying jobs and provide a reliable foundation for clean energy development. Essex MPP Anthony Leardi added that the line will bolster the greenhouse sector and help fuel economic growth.

Source: CBC