Hydro One Initiates Construction on St. Clair Transmission Line to Enhance Power in Southwest Ontario

Hydro One Initiates Construction on St. Clair Transmission Line

On September 9, 2025, Hydro One Inc., a leading electricity transmission and distribution provider in Ontario, celebrated the launch of the St. Clair Transmission Line. This milestone event took place in Courtright, Ontario, in partnership with First Nations communities and provincial and municipal leaders. The project represents a significant investment of $471.9 million aimed at enhancing power supply in a rapidly growing region of Ontario.

As Ontario faces increasing electricity demand, especially in the southwest, the St. Clair Transmission Line is set to provide a crucial boost. Hydro One is committed to meeting the anticipated need for electricity as the province grows, particularly in areas such as electric vehicle manufacturing and agricultural operations. Megan Telford, Hydro One’s Chief Operating Officer, emphasized the project’s importance for the future energy needs of the region and the province. "With today's groundbreaking, we're building more than infrastructure; we are investing in the future," she stated.

The St. Clair Transmission Line project is part of a broader network, including the recently energized Chatham to Lakeshore line, and the upcoming Longwood to Lakeshore transmission lines. Importantly, Hydro One is implementing a 50-50 First Nation Equity Partnership Model, through which First Nation partners will hold a 50% equity stake in the transmission project. This innovative approach underscores Hydro One’s commitment to inclusivity and collaboration with Indigenous communities. Janelle Nahmabin, Chief of Aamjiwnaang First Nation, highlighted the significance of First Nations’ involvement, stating, "By bringing Indigenous knowledge and leadership to the table, we are helping to build a stronger, more resilient electricity system."

The construction phase of the project is expected to generate around 70 new job opportunities, providing local employment and stimulating economic growth. Two Canadian-owned companies, Forbes Bros. Group of Companies and Black McDonald Limited, will lead the construction efforts. Both companies have extensive experience collaborating with Indigenous communities and managing large-scale infrastructure projects.

Electricity demand in southwest Ontario is projected to quadruple by 2035. According to the Independent Electricity System Operator, this surge in demand underscores the urgent need for infrastructure projects like the St. Clair Transmission Line. Once operational, the line is anticipated to deliver an additional 450 megawatts of clean electricity—enough to power a city the size of London.

Special guests at the groundbreaking included several officials and local leaders, who expressed their excitement about the project’s potential. Stephen Lecce, Minister of Energy and Mines, emphasized the importance of reliable energy in fostering economic growth in southwestern Ontario. Bob Bailey, MPP for Sarnia-Lambton, also highlighted the historical significance of Lambton’s contribution to energy production in Ontario and expressed pride in seeing this legacy continue.

Further underscoring the positive impact, Steve Pinsonneault, MPP for Lambton–Kent–Middlesex, noted that the project will enhance local electricity infrastructure to meet growing energy demands and support families, farmers, and businesses. Darrin Canniff, Mayor of Chatham-Kent, stated, "We are thrilled to see construction begin on this transformative transmission project, playing a vital role in meeting our region’s energy demands."

The St. Clair Transmission Line is seen as a pivotal infrastructure project for southwestern Ontario, aiming to strengthen the energy grid, support agricultural operations, and stimulate local economies. It will also contribute to Ontario’s objective of fostering a self-reliant energy system to secure a prosperous future.

As Hydro One moves forward with the project, their commitment to community and environmental sustainability remains at the forefront. The St. Clair Transmission Line represents not just a step towards fulfilling immediate energy demands, but a significant investment in the electrical backbone of Ontario, ensuring that it meets the needs of future generations. For more information about the project, you can visit the Hydro One website at Hydro One.