Should Ontario Build an Underwater Power Line Across Lake Ontario?
Official title: Advancing Critical Transmission Expansion in the Toronto Area
Ontario wants to build its first underwater high-voltage power line across Lake Ontario, connecting downtown Toronto to Bowmanville. The project would boost grid resilience after flooding knocked out power in 2024 and help meet growing electricity demand in the GTA. The government is asking for input on how to select a company to build it—including requirements for Indigenous partnerships and Canadian business participation.
Why This Matters
Live in Toronto or the GTA? Your power reliability is at stake. The 2024 floods showed how vulnerable the current grid is. This underwater line would create a backup power route that extreme weather can't knock out. It could also mean fewer construction disruptions—no digging through your neighbourhood.
What Could Change
If approved, Ontario would direct the IESO to run a competitive bidding process for the Toronto Third Line project. The winning company would need to demonstrate experience with underwater transmission and Indigenous engagement. The line would be operational by 2037 or sooner, with contract terms requiring cost controls that feed into electricity rate regulation.
Key Issues
- What experience should companies need to bid on this underwater transmission project?
- How should Indigenous economic participation be evaluated and enforced?
- What incentives should encourage Ontario and Canadian business participation?
- How should the contract ensure the project stays on schedule and within budget?
How to Participate
- Read the proposal details on this consultation page to understand what's being proposed for the Toronto Third Line project.
- Submit your comments through the Environmental Registry of Ontario by the deadline. You can also email janice.pillon@ontario.ca with questions.
Submit Your Input
Questions Being Asked (4)
- Should the RFP be limited to applicants with experience in underwater transmission lines?
- How should Indigenous engagement and economic participation be evaluated?
- What incentives should maximize Ontario and Canadian business participation?
- What contract terms should ensure schedule adherence and cost containment?