Tuesday, February 10, 2026
The Government of Ontario announced it has directed the Ontario Energy Board to designate Hydro One to develop and construct a new priority transmission line between Sudbury and the Barrie area.
The proposed priority project is a new single-circuit 500-kilovolt (kV) transmission line that will span approximately 300 kilometres from the Hanmer Transformer Station (TS) in Sudbury to the Essa TS near Barrie, including associated station facility expansions. The line is expected to be in service in 2032.
“Transmission investments are a crucial part of our plan to meet growing electricity demand across Ontario,” said the Hon. Sam Oosterhoff, Associate Minister of Energy-Intensive Industries. “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. We’re especially pleased to be moving ahead on this project in partnership with the ECFN, whose leadership will be critical to its success and will leave a lasting impact on Ontario’s energy grid.”
Through Hydro One’s First Nation Equity Partnership Model, proximate First Nations will have the opportunity to invest in a 50 per cent equity stake in the transmission line component of the project. Together, Hydro One and the proximate First Nations will collaborate on the planning, development and construction of the transmission line.
“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,” said David Lebeter, President and CEO, Hydro One. “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. We thank the government for its support as we continue to invest in a stronger, more secure Ontario and Canada.”
“This milestone reflects the work Chippewas of Rama First Nation does each day to move our community forward in a good way,” said 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. We will continue to work with Hydro One as the project moves ahead to ensure it delivers lasting benefits for our members and our neighbours.”
Featured image: (Government of Ontario)
