Critical infrastructure at our Hawthorne Transmission Station was first commissioned more than 60 years ago. We’re proud to share that after so many years, this $85 million investment project is now complete.

The critical upgrades included replacing aging infrastructure and energizing five new transformers. This will help drive economic growth by increasing the amount of available power and improving reliability.

Our work doesn’t just stop here. We’re looking to the future and what we can do today to continue to ensure we are meeting the evolving needs of communities across the province.

In Ottawa, we also have plans to upgrade high-voltage power lines between Hawthorne and Merivale Transmission Station, further enhancing power resiliency and support growth for customers in the Ottawa area.

“We have a responsibility to energize life by investing in a robust power system in our nation’s capital to attract new businesses, create jobs and spark community growth. These upgrades will strengthen the province’s high-voltage transmission network and build a smarter, sustainable and reliable electricity system. By making smart investments in our infrastructure today, we can help keep Ontario competitive and re-ignite our economy.”

Jason Fitzsimmons, Chief Corporate Affairs and Customer Care Officer, Hydro One

By strengthening Hydro One’s high-voltage system, we will keep Ontario competitive by attracting future business and residential growth.

Supporting the Ottawa Region through the Pandemic

Throughout the pandemic, Hydro One and Hydro Ottawa collaborated to complete upgrades at Hawthorne Transmission Station to limit service disruptions to customers, especially as many Ottawa residents continue to work and study from home.

“Today’s announcement is good news for Ottawa. By working with Hydro Ottawa and Hydro One, we will be able to ensure the region can continue to grow and welcome residents and businesses for years to come and we thank both providers for working together to keep Ottawa energized during the pandemic.”

Jim Watson, Mayor of Ottawa

“Collaborating with our colleagues at Hydro One ultimately allows us to better prepare for the future and serve our customers. The Hawthorne station and upcoming transmission line upgrade are critical to support our work and our city as we continue to experience substantial growth and extreme weather events. Together, by preparing and modernizing the grid, we can ensure businesses, residents and communities can continue to thrive in Ottawa with access to safe, clean and reliable electricity.”

Bryce Conrad, President and CEO, Hydro Ottawa

Construction on upgrades to the transmission lines between Hawthorne and Merivale Transmission Station in the south end of Ottawa is expected to begin early next year.

We will continue hosting community engagements later this year to share information with residents and answer any questions.