Lower Mattagami project one step closer to completion

Two new units at Smoky Falls/ Kâpâškilehtehk now operating

TORONTO, Oct. 15, 2014 /CNW/ - The Lower Mattagami River hydroelectric re-development project is one step closer to completion.

Two new units at Smoky Falls/ Kâpâškilehtehk Generating Station are now operating adding 178 MW to OPG's clean energy portfolio.  The $2.6 billion project continues to track on time and budget.

"Many of our community members have worked hard on this project," said Moose Cree First Nation Chief, Norm Hardisty Jr.  "I'm proud of them, and the continuing economic opportunities our partnership with OPG will bring to our community for decades to come."

The remaining two units of the Lower Mattagami Project will come on line in the coming months.

"This Project is a great example of what can be achieved when business and First Nation communities work together and the benefits these collaborations bring to Ontario. In addition to contributing to Ontario's clean energy mix, this project has created jobs and economic benefits for businesses," said Bob Chiarelli, Minister of Energy.

"Our partnership with the Moose Cree First Nation is key to the success of this project and partnerships with First Nations are a key aspect of OPG's way of doing business," said OPG President and CEO, Tom Mitchell.  "With two units left to go, our focus will be on safely completing the job."

Mitchell added that OPG will be using project management skills gained from this project on its upcoming refurbishment of the Darlington nuclear station.

The project, which is expected to be completed this winter adds 438 MW of electricity generation capacity to OPG's clean energy portfolio. The majority of the energy OPG produces is virtually free of climate change and smog causing emissions.

Work began on the project in June 2010.  At peak construction over 1600 people worked on the project including 250 First Nation and Métis workers.  The Moose Cree will have a 25 per cent interest in the new units.

The two recently completed units are part of a three-unit 267 MW station that is replacing an existing 83 year old, 55 MW station.  The new station will be known by its Cree name, Kâpâškilehtehk, which means mist rising, and Smoky Falls Generating Station.  The old station has reached the end of its service life and is being decommissioned.

SOURCE: Ontario Power Generation Inc.

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