The AESO initiated a study in June 2009 to explore the technical feasibility of utilizing high voltage AC underground transmission technology for a portion of the Heartland project. Working with public stakeholders, the AESO engaged an independent consulting firm, Cable Consulting International Ltd. (CCI), to explore this technology.
For more information, view the study results and associated documents.
Looking for information about electricity in Alberta? Read our publication, Powering Albertans.
Our aim with this magazine is to help Albertans better understand the complex electricity industry and the importance of upgrading our electricity system to meet the future needs of all Albertans.
Our Long-term Transmission System Plan outlines the need to upgrade transmission lines in order to ensure the reliability of Alberta's electricity supply - now and in the future. Alberta's transmission system is an essential part of the power grid. It moves power from where it is generated to the customers who need it.
Read the entire plan or one of our brochures:
We're the AESO, the Alberta Electric System Operator. Since 2003, we've been operating and planning Alberta's electric transmission system. Our job is to keep a close watch on how well the provincial transmission system is meeting Albertans' needs now and well into the future.
We're an independent, not-for-profit organization. We don't own or have a financial interest in any power facilities and we act in the public interest of all Albertans.
We're governed by an independent board that comes from a wide variety of backgrounds and professions. Our applications are reviewed and approved by the Alberta Utilities Commission, the provincial regulator who works on behalf of all Albertans.
During 2007 and 2008 we consulted with over 2,000 landowners, stakeholders and members of the general public. We participated in approximately 300 open houses and group meetings to hear what they had to say about ways to improve a transmission system that has not been upgraded in over 20 years.
We released our Long-term Transmission System Plan in June 2009. Alberta's transmission system is stretched to its limits and our ability to connect power to the people, businesses and industries is becoming increasingly difficult. Our plan includes a detailed analysis of what's required so Alberta's transmission system stays strong, reliable and efficient as the province continues to grow.
The proposed upgrades to the current transmission system will provide these benefits:
- A strong, efficient and unhampered transmission system that delivers power and supports a competitive electricity market.
- A healthy transmission system attracts investment to Alberta and more investment creates further job creation and economic prosperity.
- An upgraded system accommodates Alberta's renewable energy portfolio including wind, solar, hydro and biomass.
