Puslinch could see new transformer, transmission line but no power to township
Hydro One promises public consultation, communication with township
ABERFOYLE – As Ontario grows, it will need more electricity and Hydro One wants to build a new transformer station in Puslinch and add a hydro corridor to connect it to a transformer station in Preston.
On March 4, Hydro One officials explained to Puslinch council their plan, the environmental assessment process and how/when the public can add their comments and concerns.
Senior advisor Scott Nair told council the Independent Electricity Sytem Operator (IESO) has recommended a new 500/230 kilovolt transformer station and a double-circuit 230kV transmission line be in service by 2031.
Hydro One owns land in Puslinch south of Highway 401 at the corner of Concession Roads 2 and 7, and hopes an environmental study will identify it as an appropriate site for a transformer.
The assessment will also identify transmission corridor options including a preferred option, Nair said. Loosely, it would run east/west and be located south of the 401.
This is the beginning of the process, he explained, but the plan is to have the transformer in operation by 2031.
He said Hydro One is happy to partner with the township on community projects or events.
Councillors said a hydro corridor might make a great trail, depending on the final route. They also expressed hope that as Hydro One lands are opposite the newly designated employment lands, there might be a way to bring electricity to these sites when they are developed.
“You are going through the area but not benefitting the area,” councillor Sara Bailey noted.
Mayor James Seeley wondered if construction roads created while the transformer is being built, could one day become municipal roads to serve the employment lands.
Nair couldn’t answer those questions but agreed with council that good communication with the township and with residents would make the process go more smoothly.
There will be public meetings on the proposal and properties within 500 metres will be notified, he said.
In addition, community members can provide comments or be added to the project contact list by calling 1-877-345-6799 or emailing community.relations@hydroone.ca.
