AltaLink is preparing to work on a transmission line between the Edmonton and Calgary areas (after the Government of Alberta announced the transmission system in the area needed to be reinforced).

In consultation with Alberta Electric System Operator (AESO), the
government concluded two new transmission lines are required between
the Edmonton and Calgary areas: a west and an east. AltaLink will begin
work on the west route once directed by AESO.

“It’s important that Alberta’s transmission system keeps pace with our
province, serving the needs of the millions of Albertans that rely on
electricity every day,” said Leigh Clarke, AltaLink’s senior
vice-president of external engagement.

AESO has forecast about 5000 MW of new generation sources will be
needed by 2017 from across all regions of the province. “A new and
technologically smarter transmission system is the glue that holds all
of this new generation together and enables Alberta’s electricity
future,” said Clarke.

The new lines are expected to use high-voltage direct current (HVDC)
technology. According to AltaLink, they will be the first of their kind
in the province, and able to transport large volumes of power more
efficiently than alternating current (AC) lines.

ALTALINK