New transmission line through Leamington, Chatham to support greenhouse industry

Hydro One announced Thursday the development and construction of a new transmission line from Chatham, Ont. to Leamington, Ont.

The line will operate at 230 kilovolts, a move Hydro One said will support the expansion of the greenhouse industry in southwestern Ontario. The line is expected to bring an additional 400 megawatts of power to the region.

Jay Armitage, director of communications for Hydro One called it a "significant investment."

"This is about jobs, prosperity and economic growth," said Armitage, who said it will take a "considerable number of employees" just to build the line.

"We have been listening to our customers," said Mark Poweska, president and CEO of Hydro One. "This substantial investment will allow for more than 40 medium-sized greenhouses to start and grow."

Hydro One had already approved a $193-million investment to add 600 megawatts to the Leamington area, to build three new transmission stations. These projects, combined with the new line to Chatham, will increase power available to 1,000 megawatts.

Before work can begin, a preliminary engineering design, estimated cost, public and Indigenous consultation and environmental assessment must be completed.

"We can't say where it will run until we go through these assessments," said Armitage. "This is the really large towers, wires, that cut across the province. We have an existing corridor from Chatham to Leamington."

The line might go along the existing corridor, but assessments and consultations are still needed.

Leamington Coun. Bill Dunnsaid this means "everything" for the town.

"To be able to meet hydro needs is incredible," said Dunn. "To be able to meet those needs is absolutely huge."

The line is expected to be completed by the end of 2025.