Overview
As a Transmitter, Hydro One has accountability for the safe and reliable operation of the transmission system in Ontario. When we connect a customer station to our transmission system, it’s our responsibility to ensure the reliability of the system isn’t adversely impacted by the project.
Connection Projects
Connection projects can involve new, replaced or modified existing transmission equipment or protection modifications. Two main Hydro One activities related to a connection project are:
- The Design Compatibility Review, and
- The Confirmation of Verification Evidence Report (COVER)
Design Compatibility Review
The Design Compatibility Review ensures the customer’s new or modified sub station design doesn’t adversely impact the existing transmission system and the substation equipment meets minimum requirements. This is accomplished by a review of the customer design and protection documentation.
- Not all connection projects require a Design Compatibility Review.
- The need for a Design Compatibility Review is determined once preliminary project information is submitted to the Account Executive.
- Minimum project information requirements for a preliminary submission should contain a written scope of work together with supporting single line diagrams.
COVER
The COVER Report is a series of industry accepted functional tests performed by the customer during the final commissioning stage of the project. A Hydro One Cover Coordinator will be assigned to the project to validate form completion and coordinate any Hydro One activity related to the commissioning activity. The COVER Report:
- Is completed by a professional engineer representing the customer.
- Validates the correct operation of the design or modification relating to the electrical protection and telemetry requirements.
- Validates critical major electrical equipment acceptance checks.
- Confirms ESA approval of the substation project where required.
- Validates the electrical design in accordance with the Transmission System Code.
- Ensures Utility Work Protection Code requirements are met.
- Enables the final approval to energize or re-energize the customer substation.
To download a copy of the Transmission COVER form, click here.
Timelines & Costs
- The Compatibility Design Review can take four to eight weeks after receipt of all required documentation depending on the complexity of the project.
- The COVER process requires a minimum of 30 business days following receipt of the customer’s commissioning plan.
- In order for Hydro One to recover the costs, an initial Purchase Order of $25,000 may be required. Please note that you will be billed on actual costs.
- Your Account Executive will inform you of any cost requirement following a preliminary submission of any new or modified connection project.
Contact Us
If you are planning to upgrade or modify your connection to the transmission system, please contact your Account Executive as soon as possible for an initial consultation.