Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro is investing $52 million in 2010 throughout Newfoundland and Labrador to ensure the continued safety and reliability of the provincial electricity system.



“Providing safe and reliable service to our customers is of paramount importance to Hydro, and we continue to invest significantly in the provincial electricity system to ensure a stable and reliable power supply,” explained Jim Haynes, Hydro’s Vice President of Regulated Operations. “Our priority is to ensure the safety of our employees and the public, followed by our commitment to continued reliable and safe operations for electricity customers.”



The 2010 capital program is focused on continued performance and improved reliability. Maintaining the safe and reliable operation of Hydro’s electricity infrastructure is accomplished through routine maintenance and replacing or upgrading aging assets.



Preparation for upgrades to the distribution system in Labrador West is currently underway. This multi-year project, estimated to cost $20 million over a three-year period which began in 2009, includes the construction of two new terminal stations, the conversion of existing lines to 25 kV and extensions to the distribution system in the area. Upgrades to the electricity system in the region are necessary to improve the distribution system reliability and allow for some additional commercial and residential growth in the area.



Over $24 million will be invested in Hydro’s Transmission and Rural Operations, including upgrades, repairs and replacement of insulators, poles, and transmission and distribution lines throughout the province. Hydro’s annual Wood Pole Line Management Program continues in 2010 with a $2.3 million investment.



Nearly three million dollars will be invested in Hydro’s generation assets in isolated communities throughout the province, including modifications to the L’Anse au Loup diesel generating plant to permanently accommodate a new generating unit. Increasing generation capacity at this plant was completed to maintain a reliable power supply for customers in this area.



“A key component of Hydro’s business is to ensure consistent, efficient and effective asset management, which involves reviewing the condition of our electricity infrastructure on a continual basis,” says Haynes. “We have a comprehensive asset management plan as well as a 20-year capital plan in place to ensure we complete capital work at the necessary times to keep our assets in sound working condition to assure our customers continued reliable service.”