IESO increasing reliability of the electricity system in the Ottawa area
February 13, 2019
The IESO is increasing the reliability of Ottawa’s electricity system by requesting Hydro One make enhancements to critical transmission lines within the city.
With electricity demand expected to increase due to growth in the western half of the city of Ottawa, the enhancements will allow greater amounts of electricity to flow across the lines to help maintain a long-term reliable supply of electricity for the region. The enhanced lines will also increase the resiliency of the area’s electricity system by helping to mitigate emergency power outages.
In addition to servicing the city of Ottawa, this enhancement also reinforces an important pathway that brings generation from Eastern Ontario and Québec to consumers across Ontario. The enhancements will enable greater imports from Québec during times of peak electricity usage, benefitting consumers by allowing greater competition in meeting regional and provincial electricity needs. Imports from Québec may also be able to participate in future capacity auctions, increasing competition and driving down costs.
As part of its request to Hydro One, the IESO recommends enhancements to the line be in-service by the end of 2022. More information on the request can be found here, and any questions or comments can be directed to engagement@ieso.ca.