SaskPower is proposing to build two new transmission connections to service the expansion of TransCanada Pipelines’ pumping facilities near Liebenthal and Stewart Valley in Saskatchewan, Canada.

“These lines will help meet the needs of the oil and gas sector in southwest Saskatchewan,” said Mike Marsh, vice president, Transmission and Distribution. “SaskPower must ensure there is reliable energy to meet the growing demands of TransCanada Pipelines.”

The first project is a 230-kV transmission line that SaskPower is proposing to build between an existing transmission line and the TCP Keystone Liebenthal Pumping Station. Depending on the route chosen, the line could be up to 24 km long. The planned completion date for the Leibenthal project is October 2010 at an estimated cost of $5.8 million.

The second project is a 138-kV transmission line that is proposed to be built between an existing transmission line and the TCP Keystone Stewart Valley Pumping Station. Depending on the preferred route, the transmission line could be up to 15.6 km long. The planned completion date for the Stewart Valley project is September 2010 at an estimated cost of $3.2 million.

A number of different routes are currently under consideration for both of the transmission lines. The preferred option for each line will be the route that minimizes agricultural, environmental, social and economic impacts.

Approval for the power line routes will be sought from the Saskatchewan Ministry of Environment.