City of Edmonton transmission reinforcement

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Project updates
Project overview
Property value
Next steps
Engagement opportunities
- What we heard

Project updates

Over the past two years, we have discussed the City of Edmonton Transmission Reinforcement Project with over 1,000 homeowners, residents, businesses and other interested parties located near our proposed project. Thank you to everyone who took the time to share your comments with us.

Based on the assessments we have completed and the feedback received, we have selected preferred and alternate routes for the 240 kV and 72 kV transmission lines that have the lowest overall impact. We have submitted a Facility Application with the Alberta Utilities Commission (AUC) for approval of either the preferred or alternate route (proceeding number 29866).

Latest project notices

Project map

Once you select a location, use the scene configuration tool (top right) to view the different route segments. View route segments on the 240 kV or 72 kV transmission lines below.

Project overview

EPCOR is planning new transmission power lines and a new substation to replace aging infrastructure and meet an increased demand for power in northeast Edmonton. This project includes:

New double circuit 240 kV transmission line
New double circuit 72 kV transmission line
A new substation
Modifications to the existing Namao Substation

View visual renderings of the transmission lines here.

240 kV transmission line

A new double circuit 240 kV transmission line is being planned from an existing transmission line to a planned new substation located west of 62 Street and 125 Avenue. This transmission line is needed to reinforce the electrical transmission system in northeast Edmonton.

After careful consideration EPCOR has selected Route B as the preferred route for the double circuit 240 kV transmission line and Route E as the alternate route. Route B was selected as the preferred route as it minimizes interaction with nearby rail infrastructure, minimizes impacts to the environment and resolves concerns with visual impact. Route B was the most favoured route by property owners, residents and occupants in the area.

A portion of Route E uses above ground transmission structures. These structures will have six transmission wires (three on each side), one or two shield/fibre optic wires strung on top and one wire below the transmission wires. Structures would be installed along using drills, excavators and other equipment. A crane would be used to attach the wires in stages to reduce impacts to roadways. Structure A is the main structure type and is a steel monopole structure ranging in height from 36 to 46 metres as shown here. Steel lattice towers and dead end structures would be used to cross the river and at deflections points are shown here.

Both the preferred route (route B) and the alternate route (route E) require two structures to transition the transmission line from underground to above ground. The transition structures would be approximately 38-42 metres tall and 7-10 metres wide. The red boxes on the maps show approximately where these structures would be located for each route option.

The underground segments would require the construction of a duct bank approximately 1.5 metres wide and 1 metres deep. A duct bank is an underground concrete container that protects power cables from getting damaged. This would be installed approximately 1-2 metres deep with utility access points constructed along the route for maintenance and repairs. The installation of the duct bank would involve open cut trench excavation for most of the route and a trenchless method would be used for major road and railway crossings.

The right-of-way for an underground 240 kV transmission line would be 10 metres. A right-of-way for underground transmission lines ensures access for maintenance and keeps the area clear to prevent damage to the duct bank.

The right-of-way for an above ground 240 kV transmission line would vary based on the structure type. Structure type A would require a 28 metre right-of-way (14 metres on each side of the structures). Structure type B would be used in areas where there is limited space and requires a 20 metre right-of-way (10 metres on each side of the structures).

Areas where the right-of-way overlaps with private property will require an easement between EPCOR and the property owner. You will be contacted directly if your property overlaps with the right-of-way on the preferred route. There are no development restrictions outside of the right-of-way.

72 kV transmission line

A new double circuit 72 kV transmission line is being planned from the existing Namao Substation to the planned new substation west of 62 Street and 125 Avenue. This transmission line is needed to reinforce the electrical transmission system in northeast Edmonton.

This will be a double circuit transmission line, which is two transmission lines using mostly one set of structures. By using double circuit transmission lines, we can meet the demand for electricity in the area with the least amount of transmission line routes and structures.

After careful consideration EPCOR selected Route N1/N2 as the preferred route for the above ground double circuit 72 kV transmission line. This route would reduce construction impacts, limit power outages, and avoid conflicts with a nearby rail yard. EPCOR has also proposed an alternate route (Route segment N1/S2) for consideration.

If approved, the 72 kV transmission line will be built using mostly composite fiberglass or steel poles ranging in height from 17 to 28 metres. Some of the route options follow existing distribution power lines. In these areas, every second or third distribution pole would be replaced with a transmission pole. This will be a double circuit transmission line, which means there are two transmission lines using mostly one set of structures. The structures will have six transmission wires (three on each side) with one or two shield/fibre optic wires strung on top. Structures would be installed along the route using drills, excavators and other equipment. A crane would be used to attach the wires in stages to reduce impacts to roadways.

View non-typical structures.

A right-of-way is the area we need to safely operate and maintain our power lines. EPCOR manages the right-of-way to prevent objects from contacting the wires, this includes trees and other vegetation. Our tree maintenance program monitors vegetation in the right-of-way and ensures that trimming is completed when required. In some situations, this could extend outside of the right-of-way.

The right-of-way for the 72 kV transmission line would be 14 meters (7 metres on each side of the structure). Areas where the right-of-way overlaps with private property will require an easement between EPCOR and the property owner. You will be contacted directly if your property overlaps with the right-of-way on the preferred route. There are no development restrictions outside of the right-of-way.

This project would require changes to the Namao Substation. If approved, the substation fence will be expanded approximately 15 metres to the west (as shown in green). Two new structures would also be installed within the substation to connect the new transmission lines to existing equipment.

Planned new substation

A new substation is being planned in a new location to replace the existing Kennedale Substation, which does not have the space to accommodate the required upgrades.

We have identified a possible site at the intersection of 62 Street and 125 Avenue. If approved, the new substation will be approximately 230 by 170 metres in size and include the following major equipment:

Six (6) 240 kV circuit breakers
Two (2) 240/72 kV transformers
Four (4) 72 kV circuit breakers
Two (2) 240/15 kV transformers
Substation building

Existing equipment

View information on the removal of existing transmission lines and the Kennedale Substation.

Removal of existing transmission lines

If this project is approved, existing underground 72 kV transmission lines and the Kennedale Substation will be removed from service. The existing underground transmission lines/cables are contained in fluid-filled pipes. To remove the transmission cables from service, the fluid would be drained from the pipe and the cables pulled out. Once the cables are removed, the pipes would be inspected and cleaned so that they could potentially be reused for other future purposes, such as containing communication cables. These activities would not occur until after all the new facilities are built and operating in 2028-2029. More information on these activities would be provided closer to this time.

Removal of the Kennedale Substation

Once the new substation is built and operating, the Kennedale Substation located at 5035 126 Ave will be removed from service (shown in yellow on the map). Once that is complete, the site will be repurposed for other EPCOR uses or prepared for sale. As a part of this work, the distribution power lines will be reconnected to the new substation. Distribution lines are the power lines that provide electricity to homes and businesses.

Property value

During our conversations with community members, we received questions on impacts to property value. In response to these questions, we hired a consultant to evaluate and prepare a report on the potential effects of high voltage transmission lines on residential property values within the City of Edmonton.

For the Preferred and Alternate 72 kV Routes, the report concluded that due to the distance from the structures and the existing linear disturbances along the routes, no property value impacts are anticipated.

For the Preferred and Alternate 240 kV Routes, the report concluded that since the 240 kV transmission lines will be underground (Preferred 240 kV Route) or mainly underground (Alternate 240 kV Route), it would not result in any property value impacts to adjacent properties. For the above ground portion of the Alternate 240 kV Route, no property value impacts are expected due to the large distance between the above-ground structures and the potentially affected residential properties.

This report is included in our Facility Application, which is available on the Alberta Utilities Commission eFiling system or you can contact us for more information.

Next steps

This project cannot proceed without approval from the Alberta Utilities Commission (AUC). Once the AUC reviews the Facility Application, they will send out a notice of filing to provide more information on the next steps in their process. This is an opportunity to provide feedback directly to the AUC, including route preferences.

If the AUC approves this project, they will also select which routes will be constructed. This would include one route for the 240 kV transmission line and one route for the 72 kV transmission line.

Alberta Utilities Commission (AUC)

Alberta’s electric system is regulated by the AUC. The AUC is an independent quasi-judicial agency that ensures the delivery of Alberta’s utility service takes place in a manner that is fair, responsible and in the public’s interest. The AUC must approve this project before EPCOR can begin construction. For more information about how you can participate in the process, please refer to the AUC’s brochure included in this package entitled Participating in the AUC’s independent review process to consider facility applications or visit the AUC website.

CONTACT THE AUC

Toll-free:1-833-511-4282
Phone: 310-4282
Website: www.auc.ab.ca

Engagement opportunities

We understand this development can impact people and recognize that there will still be some concerns. We take those concerns seriously and will continue to work with those affected on an individual basis to address their concerns. You can still provide feedback about this project to both us and the AUC while our Facility Application is being considered.

What we heard

Public feedback is an important part of our planning process. So far, we have had over 500 conversations, which helped us refine our route options. Below is a summary of the feedback and what we did with that information.

Underground

We received inquiries on an underground route option.

In early 2023, we developed above ground route options as they are less costly for Alberta ratepayers, faster to build, and easier to access for maintenance and repairs. However, due to potential technical challenges with the above ground 240 kV line routes options, we developed underground and hybrid route options for consideration.

Property value
We heard concerns that the transmission line would impact property value.

For the Preferred and Alternate 240 kV Routes, the report concluded that since the 240 kV transmission lines will be underground (Preferred 240 kV Route) or mainly underground (Alternate 240 kV Route), it would not result in any property value impacts to adjacent properties. For the above ground portion of the Alternate 240 kV Route, no property value impacts are expected due to the large distance between the above-ground structures and the potentially affected residential properties.

Health and Electric and Magnetic Fields (EMF)

We heard questions on EMF and health.

Power lines use power frequency (60Hz), which is classified as extremely low frequency EMF. This is the same frequency used by most household appliances and the wiring in your home. In Canada, Health Canada monitors the science on electric and magnetic fields (EMF), conducts research on potential health effects, and contributes to the World Health Organization’s research on EMF. The position of Health Canada is: The potential health effects of extremely low frequency EMF has been studied extensively. While some people are concerned that long term exposure to extremely low frequency EMF may cause cancer, the scientific evidence does not support such claims. — Health Canada 2022

To provide additional information, we reached out to a third-party specialist to provide a summary of the research and to develop projections for both aerial and underground options. The results show that the projected electric and magnetic fields for this project are well below the exposure guideline levels recommended for the general public. View additional information by Exponent Health and Scientific entitled Electric and Magnetic Fields and the City of Edmonton Transmission Reinforcement (CETR) project.

Cost

We received questions about increases to power bills and the cost of the project.

The Alberta Electric System Operator oversees the planning, maintenance and operation of the transmission grid and the cost for this is paid for by all Alberta electricity consumers. These costs are identified as the transmission charge on your power bill and includes costs associated with system projects such as the City of Edmonton Transmission Reinforcement Project. To find out more about transmission costs in Alberta you can contact the AESO at 1-888-866-2959 or stakeholder.relations@aeso.ca.

Transmission development is regulated by the Alberta Utilities Commission to ensure reasonable rates along with safe and reliable service. With this in mind, EPCOR plans projects to minimize costs to ratepayers.

Please note, these estimates are provided at a feasibility study level and may change as planning progresses. For this project, it is estimated that an underground 240 kV route would cost approximately $65 million more than an above ground transmission line route. Cost is just one of the factors we consider when selecting preferred and alternate routes. It is also a factor the Alberta Utilities Commission considers when deciding which route to approve.

Safety

We heard general safety concerns, including proximity to Yellowhead Trail and fire risk.

EPCOR puts safety first in everything we do. We are working with the City of Edmonton to identify areas near Yellowhead Trail that may require mitigation measures, such as a barrier system. We will follow all required design guides and roadway requirements.

Specific impacts, including potential traffic disruptions, would be identified ahead of construction. EPCOR will work closely with the City of Edmonton to mitigate construction impacts as much as possible.

We heard concerns about increased fire risk. We do not anticipate increased fire risk as a result of the proposed above ground transmission line. Sparks may occur if vegetation comes in contact with a power line. To prevent this, EPCOR has a tree vegetation maintenance program to ensure branches and other vegetation remains a safe distance from the wires.

Environment

We received questions about potential impacts to the environment and recreational areas.

Environmental assessments for this project are underway to identify potential impacts. These assessments will be used to create an Environmental Protection plan, which contains site specific mitigation measures. We also aim to minimize impacts by identifying route options that follow existing linear developments such as roadways, berms and trails. We heard concerns about impacts to trails and recreational areas. Potential impacts to recreational areas will be assessed to develop the appropriate mitigation measures. We do not anticipate impacts to recreational areas and trails once the transmission lines are constructed.

Maximize distance from residences

We heard feedback to increase distances from residential properties.

We have provided various route options that maximize distances from residences. We worked with the City of Edmonton to find solutions to remain as close to Yellowhead Trail as road allowances and safety would allow.

Noise

We heard questions about noise from the transmission line.

Generally, noise is not noticeable from a 240 kV above ground transmission line. You may hear a faint buzzing noise from the line during rainy weather, however it is typically only audible within the right-of-way corridor. No noise is expected from an underground transmission line.

Visual impacts

We received questions about what the transmission line would look like.

To show what the transmission lines could look like, visual renderings were completed at various points along the route options.

View visual renderings.

Power outages

We heard concerns about power outages.

During construction, temporary power outages may be required to allow us to complete the work safely. The timing and extent of outages would be determined prior to construction. We understand outages are an inconvenience and we will work with affected customers to minimize the impact of the outages and ensure customers are notified in advance.

Property value
We heard concerns that the transmission line would impact property value.

For the Preferred and Alternate 72 kV Routes, the report concluded that due to the distance from the structures and the existing linear disturbances along the routes, no property value impacts are anticipated.

This report is included in our Facility Application, which is available on the Alberta Utilities Commission eFiling system or you can contact us for more information.

Cost

Transmission development is regulated by the Alberta Utilities Commission (AUC) to ensure reasonable rates along with safe and reliable service. With this in mind, EPCOR plans projects to minimizes costs to ratepayers.

High level cost estimates for the project are provided here. The first shows the estimated cost with above ground transmission route options and the second estimate shows the cost with an underground 240 kV route option. A 240 kV underground route option was developed due to potential technical challenges with the above ground route options. The 72 kV transmission line does not have the same constraints, therefore we are not considering an underground 72 kV option at this time.

Please note, these estimates are provided at a feasibility study level and may change as planning progresses. Cost is just one of the factors we consider when selecting preferred and alternate routes. It is also a factor the Alberta Utilities Commission considers when deciding which route to approve.

Health and Electric and Magnetic Fields (EMF)

We heard questions on EMF and health.

Maximize distance from residences

We heard feedback to increase distances from residential properties and place the route near industrial/commercial areas.

We have provided various route options that maximize distances from residences. This includes retiring the route option along 127 Avenue. The current route options follow existing distribution lines, fence lines and roadways in commercial and industrial areas.

Visual impacts

We received questions about what the transmission line would look like.

To show what the transmission lines could look like, visual renderings were completed at various points along the route options.

View visual renderings.

Noise

We heard questions about noise from the transmission line.

Generally, noise is not noticeable from a 72 kV transmission line. You may hear a faint buzzing noise from the line during rainy weather, however it is typically only audible within the right-of-way corridor.

Questions and feedback

We want to hear your questions or feedback.

Contact EPCOR

Phone: 780-412-8800
Email: CETR@epcor.com
Online form: Provide feedback

Glossary of terms

There can be many technical terms used to describe electricity projects. We do our best to not use technical language but here are some common definitions to help understand this project.

Transmission lines: Transmission lines are larger scale power lines that carry electricity from Substation to substation.

Distribution lines: Distribution lines are medium-voltage power lines that run throughout the city. Their voltage can range between 2,400 to 25,000 volts. Distribution lines are mainly underground in newer neighbourhoods and above-ground (pole-mounted) in older urban neighbourhoods.

Substation: This is an electricity station that converts electricity from higher voltage power lines (transmission lines) to lower voltages that can be safely distributed to homes and businesses in the area through distribution lines.

AESO: The Alberta Electric System Operator is an independent, not-for-profit agency in Alberta that plans and expands the electrical grid by working with industry partners and the government to make sure reliable power is there when you need it.

AUC: The Alberta Utilities Commission is an independent, quasi-judicial agency of the province of Alberta who is responsible for making decisions about applications to construct, operate, upgrade and decommission electric transmission and distribution power lines that deliver electricity to Alberta homes and businesses. The AUC ensures that applications fit the electricity plan developed to meet the electricity need and forecast set by the Alberta Electric System Operator. It considers the public interest and the social, economic and environmental impacts from its decisions about proposed transmission lines.

EMF: Electric and magnetic fields (EMFs) are invisible areas of energy that are associated with the use of electrical power and various forms of natural and man-made lighting. After more than 40 years of research that includes thousands of studies and numerous reviews by health agencies, Health Canada and the World Health Organization have concluded that typical exposures to EMF from overhead power lines does not have any known health consequences.

We are getting an EMF study completed which will include a summary of the research on EMF and projections for both the 72 kV and 240 kV transmission lines. If you would like to receive this information when it is available, we can add you to the distribution list.

Voltage: In common terms, this is the ‘pressure’ of the electricity being measured. The typical home has a 120 & 240 volt electrical service. A kilovolt (kV) is 1,000 volts. The voltage of the power lines on the power poles behind people’s homes are 15kV or 25kV. The transmission lines being proposed in this project are double-circuit 72kV and 240kV power lines.

Facility application: This is the application package that EPCOR will submit to the Alberta Utilities Commission to request permission for construction of the project. It will contain a preferred and alternate routes for the proposed power lines as well as a record of the public consultation program. The Commission will decide whether or not to approve the project based off this package as well as other public input it may receive.

Public hearing: After EPCOR completes community consultations and submits its Facility Application, the Alberta Utilities Commission will determine if a public hearing is required. If needed, this is a public meeting where impacted stakeholders can address Commission officials to register concerns they may have with the project.