Committee Makes Transmission Line Recommendations

The Critical Transmission Review Committee has found that forecasts showing a need to immediately reinforce the transmission grid are reasonable, and recommends proceeding as soon as possible with development of two high-voltage direct current transmission lines between the Edmonton and Calgary regions.

“In our considered view, the planning for these transmission lines has been reasonable and they are required to meet the needs of Albertans,” said committee chair Brian Heidecker. “We do recognize concerns expressed about Bill 50 and recommend amending the legislation to remove the ability of cabinet to designate any future projects as critical.”

The committee recommended changes to legislation so that consideration of the need for future projects is returned to the Alberta Utilities Commission (AUC). It is also recommended that the AUC consider options that will mitigate the cost impacts of the transmission reinforcement to residential and industrial consumers.

“The committee has done a thorough job and I appreciate their efforts. Their findings will be carefully considered and responded to in the near future,” said Energy Minister Ted Morton.