Should Ontario Fast-Track the Red Lake Transmission Line?
Official title: Enhancing Transmission Capacity North of Dryden – The Red Lake Transmission Project
Ontario wants to build a major power line to Red Lake to support mining projects. The government is asking whether to fast-track approvals and assign Hydro One as the builder. This would skip some regulatory steps to get power flowing faster to northwestern Ontario.
Why This Matters
Live in northwestern Ontario? This could mean more reliable power and local jobs. The project would support mining operations that bring employment to the region. Indigenous communities could get a 50% ownership stake in the new lines.
What Could Change
Two new 230-kilovolt transmission lines would run from Dryden to Ear Falls to Red Lake. The Ontario Energy Board would have to accept the project is needed, streamlining approvals. Hydro One would be designated as the builder, bypassing competitive bidding.
Key Issues
- Should this transmission project be declared a 'priority project' to fast-track approvals?
- Should Hydro One be designated as the transmitter without competitive bidding?
- How should Indigenous communities be consulted and included as partners?
- What environmental protections should apply to the transmission corridor?
How to Participate
- Review the proposal details on this page to understand the two proposed actions: declaring the project a priority and designating Hydro One as the transmitter.
- Submit your comments through the Environmental Registry of Ontario before the December 13, 2025 deadline.