In support of next generation clean energy production and Alberta’s plan to keep the lights on across the province, two electric transmission companies have been granted permission to apply for approval to construct and operate new critical electric transmission lines between Edmonton and Calgary.

The companies, AltaLink LP and ATCO Electric will begin design, environmental assessments, siting options and public and landowner consultations for the Edmonton to Calgary lines. Following this work, the companies will be able to apply to the Alberta Utilities Commission (AUC) for approval to build and operate the two lines: AltaLink on the west side of the province and ATCO Electric on the east.

“These new transmission lines will provide the electricity highway to Alberta homes and industry that will facilitate greatly expanded wind-generated power, more low emission co-generation facilities, hydro and next generation clean coal plants,” said Energy Minister Mel Knight. “They will also reduce the losses on existing lines that cost Alberta consumers more than $220 million last year. The longer we wait, the greater the cost and the greater the risk that Albertans may lose the electricity service they rely on and expect.”

This is similar to the process of the Alberta Electric System Operator in which responsibility may be assigned to a transmission company before the need is considered by the AUC. The exact locations of the transmission lines are subject to the siting approval process of the AUC. The siting approval process requires the AUC to conduct public hearings to address public and landowner concerns as to specific siting of transmission facilities.

The Edmonton-Calgary transmission lines have been identified as essential to ensuring the safe, reliable and efficient operation of Alberta’s electricity system. Strengthening Alberta’s transmission system supports the goals of the Provincial Energy Strategy.