Ontario Selects Hydro One to Build new Priority Transmission Line Between Sudbury and Barrie
February 9, 2026
The government of Ontario has directed the Ontario Energy Board to designate Hydro One Hydro to develop and construct a new priority transmission line between Sudbury and the Barrie area. The proposed priority project is a new single-circuit 500-kilovolt (kV) transmission line that will span approximately 300 kilometres from the Hanmer Transformer Station (TS) in Sudbury to the Essa TS near Barrie, including associated station facility expansions. The line is expected to be in service in 2032.
The designation of this project includes the direction to complete development work for a second new single-circuit 500-kV transmission line. This work will help support new generation opportunities in northern Ontario, strengthen reliability and prepare the system for future growth. A recommended in-service date for the second line will be determined by the Independent Electricity System Operator.
Through Hydro One’s First Nation Equity Partnership Model, proximate First Nations will have the opportunity to invest in a 50 per cent equity stake in the transmission line component of the project. Together, Hydro One and the proximate First Nations will collaborate on the planning, development and construction of the transmission line.
