Hanna Region (East-Central Alberta) Transmission System Development Needs Identification Document
Proceeding ID. 278
Application No. 1605359

On August 14, 2009 the Alberta Electric System Operator (AESO), which is responsible for planning electric facility development in Alberta, applied to the AUC for approval of the need for new transmission development throughout Southern Alberta. This application deals with the need for transmission reinforcement - and not the construction of the facilities. The construction of transmission lines and facilities requires a separate application to the AUC.

The AESO’s Needs Application identifies and describes proposed reinforcements and enhancements to the transmission system in southeastern Alberta, including Wainwright, Hardistry, Castor, Provost, Stettler, Drumheller, Hanna, Monitor, Oyen, Empress, Ware Junction and Brooks.

The AESO has determined, in accordance with its statutory mandate, that this transmission development is required to meet Alberta's electricity needs and is in the public interest, specifically to alleviate conditions that affect the ability of the Hanna Region to provide safe, reliable and economic electricity service to the local area and to facilitate interconnection of wind power projects in the region.

The AUC released Decision 2010-188 on April 29, 2010, approving the need to phase in electricity transmission reinforcement in East-Central Alberta. The AUC decision, however confirms only the need for transmission reinforcement as a separate facilities application is required by the transmission facility operator selected by the AESO.

The AUC held information sessions, prior to the submission deadline, about the AUC’s hearing procedures, how to access the Needs Application online and how to obtain funding in the following communities:

Contact Information:

Alberta Utilities Commission
Facilities Division
Re: EPS ID. 278 & Application No. 1605359
Fifth Avenue Place, 4 Floor, 425 – 1 Street SW
Calgary AB   T2P 3L8
Telephone: 780-427-4903
Email: utilitiesconcerns@auc.ab.ca

Alberta Electric System Operator
2500, 330 - 5th Ave SW
Calgary AB   T2P 0L4
Attention: Deanna Merrick
Telephone: 403-539-2563
Email: deanna.merrick@aeso.ca

For further information:

Decision 2010-188
News Release 2010-04
Notice of Hearing
Application (direct link to electronic files related to the application)
Information session presentation material
Information session presentation material (how to access the full application and any filings before the Notice of Hearing and submissions after the notice) 
Rule 001 – Rules of Practice
Rule 009 – Rules of Local Intervener Costs
AUC Facility Application Process
AESO website