Hydro One Networks Inc. received approval from the Ontario Energy Board to develop and construct a new double‑circuit 230‑kV transmission line that will run from the Dryden Transformer Station north to Ear Falls and connect to the Red Lake Switching Station. The line will add roughly 400 MW of capacity to the northwest Ontario grid, nearly quadrupling the region’s existing transmission capacity and is expected to be in service by the early 2030s.
The project will be built under Hydro One’s 50‑50 First Nations equity partnership model, giving proximate First Nations a 50 % equity stake in the transmission component. This partnership approach has been used successfully on earlier projects such as the Waasigan Transmission Line and is intended to secure local support, accelerate permitting, and ensure that the benefits of the infrastructure are shared with the communities that will rely on it.
The Red Lake Transmission Line is a key element of Ontario’s “Energy for Generations” integrated energy plan, which prioritizes reliable, affordable, and clean electricity to fuel economic growth. The line will support the province’s critical minerals strategy by providing the power needed for new mining projects in the Red Lake region, where electricity demand is projected to rise by up to 525 % by 2050. It will also strengthen reliability for northern communities and create a foundation for future industrial development.
"Ontario's long–term growth depends on strong and reliable electricity infrastructure. The Red Lake Transmission Line will support northern reliability, enable growth and help power communities north of Dryden. We continue to work with First Nations as partners to develop these projects, ensuring they reflect local priorities and support economic reconciliation. We thank the government for its continued trust as we invest in a strong and secure electricity system for the future," said Ryan Docherty, Executive Vice President, Capital Portfolio Delivery, Hydro One.
"Our government is on a mission to grow our economy by generating more reliable hydro power in the North and electrifying one of Ontario's most mineral rich regions with a new transmission line. We are accelerating the transmission line to power new mines, strengthen energy security and create good jobs. Ontario's plan will unlock more than 5,800 good‑paying jobs and unlock $830 million in economic potential, all delivered in true partnership with First Nations," said Stephen Lecce, Minister of Energy and Mines.
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