Hydro One invests $6.8 million to refurbish Ontario Michigan interconnection transmission circuit

-Critical investment strengthens electricity infrastructure-  

TORONTO, Oct. 14, 2014 /CNW/ - Hydro One announced today that the refurbishment of an international transmission circuit linking Ontario and Michigan is complete. The $6.8 million investment refurbished 24 towers on the 5.5 km circuit that runs from Sarnia Scott TS to the Mid River Junction Bunce Creek at the St. Clair River.

The work involved replacing five transmission towers and strengthening the steel on 19 towers in accordance with Canadian Safety Authority Standards.

"The refurbishment of this critical asset ensures continued reliability of one of the transmission lines that link Ontario and Michigan allowing for the import and export of electricity between the two jurisdictions," said Scott McLachlan Director of Transmission Asset Management.

Hydro One recognizes the importance of cooperative, respectful and positive working relationships with First Nations and Métis communities when building or refurbishing its assets. About 800 metres of this transmission line is located on Aamjiwnaang First Nation. Hydro One worked with the First Nation to find opportunities to utilize local contractors where possible.

Work started on the refurbishment in November 2013 and took approximately 17,000 construction hours to complete. Through procurement opportunities on the project, Aamjiwnaang First Nation provided security services, forestry work and installed silt fencing.

Hydro One delivers electricity safely, reliably and responsibly to homes and businesses across the province of Ontario and owns and operates Ontario's 29,000 km high-voltage transmission network that delivers electricity to large industrial customers and municipal utilities, and a 122,000 km low-voltage distribution system that serves about 1.3 million end-use customers and smaller municipal utilities in the province. Hydro One is wholly owned by the Province of Ontario.

SOURCE: Hydro One Inc.

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