WECC Annual Progress Report – Alberta APR AESO .pdfWECC Annual Progress Report – Alberta...

WECC Annual Progress Report – Alberta Electric System Operator

Date: April, 2017 Prepared by: AESO - Transmission Planning Prepared for: Technical Studies Committee, WECC cc: Planning Coordination Committee, WECC

Version: 1


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Contents Abbreviations ............................................................................................................................................. iii 1 Completed Projects .............................................................................................................................. 1 2 Projects Under Construction ............................................................................................................... 1

2.1 System Projects ........................................................................................................................................... 1 Project 786 − Edmonton Region 240 kV Line Upgrades – In service ............................................. 1 2.1.1 Project 787 − Southern Alberta Transmission Reinforcement − Updated ...................................... 2 2.1.2 Project 811 – Central East Area Transmission Development − Updated ....................................... 4 2.1.3 Project 813 − Red Deer Area Transmission Development − Updated ........................................... 5 2.1.4 Project 850 − South and West of Edmonton Transmission Development − Updated .................... 6 2.1.5 Project 1354 – Foothills Area Transmission Development 138 kV Transmission Line between 2.1.6

ENMAX SS-65 and ENMAX SS-41................................................................................................ 7 2.2 Connection Projects ..................................................................................................................................... 8

3 Projects Pending Approval .................................................................................................................. 9 3.1 System Projects ........................................................................................................................................... 9

Project 1781 − Provost to Edgerton & Nilrem to Vermilion Transmission System Reinforcement . 9 3.1.1 Project 1113 - Hanna Region Transmission Development Phase 2 .............................................. 9 3.1.2 Project 1456 – Calgary Downtown Transmission Reinforcement ................................................ 10 3.1.3

3.2 Connection Projects ................................................................................................................................... 11 Project 479 - Naturener Wild Rose Wind Farm - Updated ........................................................... 11 3.2.1 Project 693 - Naturener Wild Rose Wind Farm Phase 2 - Updated ............................................. 12 3.2.2 Project 1590 − Fort McMurray West 500 kV Line − Updated ....................................................... 13 3.2.3

4 Projects in the Planning Process ...................................................................................................... 14 4.1 System Projects ......................................................................................................................................... 14

Project 1785 – Grande Prairie Loop Transmission Reinforcement .............................................. 14 4.1.1 Project 1784 – Rycroft Transmission Reinforcement ................................................................... 14 4.1.2

4.2 Connection Projects ................................................................................................................................... 15 Project 515 − Heritage Energy Centre ......................................................................................... 15 4.2.1 Project 1080 − Old Elm & Pothole Creek Wind Farm − Update ................................................... 16 4.2.2 Project 1290 – Whitetail Peaking Station ..................................................................................... 16 4.2.3 Project 1321 – Three Creeks Power Plant - Update .................................................................... 17 4.2.4 Project 1421 - ATCO Power Heartland Generating Station - Updated ......................................... 18 4.2.5 Project 1440 − Genesee Generating Station - Unit 4 (G4) and Unit 5 (G5) − Update .................. 18 4.2.6 Project 1477 − TransAlta Sundance 7 Combined Cycle Power Plant – Cancelled ...................... 19 4.2.7 Project 1478 − Rocky Mountain Power ASSISt – Cancelled ........................................................ 20 4.2.8 Project 1467 − H.R. Milner 2 (M2) Generator − Cancelled .......................................................... 20 4.2.9

Project 1567 − Sharp Hills Wind Farm ........................................................................................ 20 4.2.10 Project 1885 – Joss Wind Power Northern Lights – New ............................................................. 21 4.2.11 Project 1724 – BowArk Energy Echo Wind Power – Cancelled ................................................... 21 4.2.12 Project 1734 Suncor Forty Mile Wind Farm – New ...................................................................... 21 4.2.13 Project 1767 − Renewable Energy Systems Canada (RESC) Forty Mile Wind Power Plant − New22 4.2.14 Project 1800 Capital Power Whitla Wind Power Facility - New ................................................... 22 4.2.15 Project 1812 Suncor Forty Mile WAGF Phase 2 - New ............................................................... 22 4.2.16 Project 1861 − Enterprise Bighorn WAGF − New ....................................................................... 23 4.2.17 Project 1875 − EDF EN Red Rock WAGF − New ....................................................................... 23 4.2.18 Project 1896 − EDF EN Cypress WAGF − New ........................................................................... 23 4.2.19


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Project 1924 − ENMAX Zephyr Wind − New ................................................................................ 24 4.2.20 Project 1797 − RES Oyen Wind − New ........................................................................................ 24 4.2.21 Project 1760 − EDF EN Fort Saskatchewan WAGF – New ........................................................ 24 4.2.22 Project 1761 − EDF EN Hand Hills WAGF – New ....................................................................... 25 4.2.23 Project 1827 − Suncor Cogeneration Project – New ................................................................... 25 4.2.24


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Abbreviations AESO Alberta Electric System Operator

AUC Alberta Utilities Commission

EATL Eastern Alberta Transmission Line

FATD Foothills Area Transmission Development

GLEC Goose Lake to Etzikom Coulee

HVDC high-voltage direct current

km kilometres

kV kilovolt

MATL Montana−Alberta Tie-Line

MVA Megavolt-ampere

MVAr Megavolt-ampere reactive

PBEC Picture Butte to Etzikom Coulee

SASR System Access Service Request

SPS Special protection systems

STS System Transmission Service

SVC static VAR compensator

VAR volt-ampere reactive

WATL Western Alberta Transmission Line


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1 Completed Projects The following projects have been completed since the release of the 2015 progress report.

• P737 North South Transmission Reinforcement (WATL and EATL HVDC lines)

• P1117 Foothills Area Transmission Development East (FATD East)

• P719 ENMAX Shepard Energy Centre Power Station

2 Projects Under Construction Needs Information Documents and Facility Applications have been approved by the Alberta Utilities Commission for the following projects. Construction are ongoing or set to begin.

2.1 System Projects

Project 786 − Edmonton Region 240 kV Line Upgrades – In service 2.1.1

• The project is in service. The next steps are to obtain final cost reports and commence its closure in Q3 2017. An overview of the project is provided below for reference. Increase the capacity of lines 908L and 909L up to the summer rating of the primary conductor (2 x 477 kcmil) by replacing the conductor on the small conductor section (first 4 km of line east of Sundance 310P)

• Increase the capacity rating of line 902L up to the summer rating of the primary conductor (2 x 477 kcmil) by replacing the conductor on the small conductor sections of line 902L (first 4 km of line east of Wabamun 19S and first 4 km of line east of Sundance 310P)

• Construct 12 km of new double circuit 240 kV line with one side strung east from Keephills 320P to the 904L-908L-909L confluence point west of Stony Plain. This construction is required to move the termination point of 908L from Sundance 310P to Keephills 320P and add two associated 240 kV breakers at Keephills 320P.

• Swap the connections of lines 904L and 908L at the 904L-908L-909L confluence point south of Jasper 805S in order to move the termination point of line 904L from Wabamun 19S to Sundance 310P

• Install Special Protection Systems (SPS) for three double circuit tower failure events (Category C5)

• Install a 240 kV 600 MVA phase shifting transformer on line 9L57 and three associated 240 kV breakers. The preferred location is the proposed Livock station north of Brintnell.

• Rebuild the 41 km east-west single circuit wood pole sections of line 904L (Jasper to Wabamun) using a 2 x 1033 kcmil conductor. Ongoing negotiations with land owners in the area have delayed work completion.

• Rebuild the 6 km east-west single circuit wood pole section of line 904L (Jasper to Petrolia) using a 2 x 1033 kcmil conductor.

• Increase the capacity of both sections of line 904L out of Jasper 805S up to the summer rating of the primary conductor (2 x 477 kcmil) by replacing the conductor on the small section (12 km of line south of Jasper 805S).


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Transmission Facility Operator (TFO) Contacts

AltaLink Joe Napora 780-822-7120 [email protected] EPCOR Wilf Behr 780-412-3962 [email protected]

AESO Contact

Vladimir Lopez Project Manager, Transmission Projects Alberta Electric System Operator (AESO) 2500, 330 – 5th Avenue SW Calgary, AB, T2P 0L4 403-539-2839 (direct) [email protected]

Project 787 − Southern Alberta Transmission Reinforcement − Updated 2.1.2

The project involves the implementation of a 240 kV loop in the Southern Alberta region to allow for future connection of wind power and to move this power to the Calgary area through three power corridors:

• from Whitla to West Brooks in the east

• from Peigan/Windy Flats to Foothills in the center

• from Goose Lake to Langdon in the west, through the existing 500 kV transmission line 1201L

The project is operational with the exception of several components that are either not proceeding or are being amended, as indicated in the project overview provided below.

Components that are being amended are pending further technical assessments and could be in service by 2022, depending on regulatory progress. Connection studies conducted for this system project do not indicate any negative impact on the transfer capability of WECC Path 1.

This project consists of the following lines: • 911L replaced by a transmission line from Foothills to Peigan (Windy Flats). The line is a 240 kV

double circuit with 50% series compensation. Each circuit is rated with a summer/winter capacity of approximately 980/980 MVA. (Commissioned)

• A new 240 kV double circuit line, approximately 150 km in length, will run from Cassils (west of Brooks) to Bowmanton (northeast of Medicine Hat). Each circuit is rated at a summer/winter capacity of approximately 980/980 MVA. (Commissioned)

• Construction of a new 240 kV switching station at a location known as Milo Junction, and conversion of two existing three-terminal lines (Langdon−West Brooks−North Lethbridge) into six two-terminal lines. (Commissioned)

mailto:[email protected]




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• A new 240 kV double circuit line, approximately 80 km in length, from Bowmanton (Medicine Hat) to Whitla, connecting the wind farms in the south. Each circuit is rated at a summer/winter capacity of approximately 980/980 MVA. (Commissioned)

• A new Chapel Rock 500/240 kV substation that cuts in and out of existing 500 kV line 1201L. The station will include two 1200 MVA 500/240 kV transformers, two 240 kV 100 MVAr capacitor banks and a +200/-100 MVAr SVC, and one 45 MVAr shunt reactor. (In the process of being amended)

• A new 240 kV double circuit transmission line connecting Chapel Rock–Castle Rock Ridge−Goose Lake. The line will have a rated summer/winter capacity of approximately 980/1200 MVA. (In the process of being amended)

• Addition of a 138 kV phase shifting transformer between Coleman and Pincher Creek. (Commissioned)

• A new 240 kV double circuit transmission line connecting Ware Junction–Langdon with a rated summer/winter capacity of 980/1200 MVA and 50% series compensation. (Cancelled)

• Addition of two 240/138 kV 400 MVA transformers at the new Windy Flats station near existing Peigan 59S station. (Commissioned)

• A new Journault 240 kV substation at Etzikom Coulee to connect future wind farms. (Not Proceeding)

• Interconnect Picture Butte (MATL) to Etzikom Coulee (PBEC) substation with double circuit 240 kV line, one side strung. (Not Proceeding)

• Interconnect Goose Lake with Etzikom Coulee (GLEC) substation with double circuit 240 kV, one side strung. (Not Proceeding)

TFO Contact

Sharmen Andrew, P.Eng. Senior Project Manager AltaLink Management Ltd. 2611 – 3rd Avenue SE Calgary, AB, T2A 7W7 Tel: (403) 267-4274 Mobile: (403) 818-0058

AESO Contact

Dale Bergman Project Manager, Transmission Projects Alberta Electric System Operator (AESO) 2500, 330 – 5th Avenue SW Calgary, AB, T2P 0L4 403-539-2704 (direct) [email protected]



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Project 811 – Central East Area Transmission Development − Updated 2.1.3

The following components of the Central East Area Transmission Development project are in service.

• New Bourque 970S substation

• 144 kV line from Bourque 970S to Mahihkan 837S

• 144 kV line from Marguerite Lake 826S to Wolf Lake 822S

• Line 7L24 termination at Bonnyville 700S

• 144 kV line from Bourque 970S to Wolf Lake 822S

• 144 kV line from Bourque 970S to Leming Lake 715S

• 240 kV line (operated at 144 kV) from Bonnyville 700S to Bourque 970S

• Bonnyville 700S transformer addition

• St. Paul Area upgrades:

− Watt Lake 956S

− St. Paul 707S and 7L139/7L70 in/out

− 7LA92 tap off to Watt Lake 956S

− Whitby Lake 819S 144kV circuit breaker addition

• Vermillion 710S Substation Upgrade

• Heisler Area upgrades − Heisler 764S and line 7LA701 tap off

• Kitscoty 6L06 decommissioning

• Line 7L701 clearance mitigation

• Kitscoty 705S and lines 7L14/7L130 lines in and out

• Line 7L53/7L117 clearance mitigation

Several components of approved NID are not listed here and are no longer required. In December 2016, the AESO filed an amendment with the AUC to cancel these components and we are awaiting approval.


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Project 813 − Red Deer Area Transmission Development − Updated 2.1.4

The Red Deer Area Transmission Development project will be implemented in two stages.

The following overview focusses on the major components in Stage I of the project. The timing of Stage II will be determined by the future load projections and/or a new generator application in the area.

Stage I • Split lines 768L and 778L and re-terminate at Red Deer North 217S (add 1 breaker, use 1

existing breaker) (Complete)

• Modify Gaetz 87S (add 2 breakers, use 1 existing breaker) (Complete)

• Add second auto-transformer at Benalto 17S (Complete)

• Add one 50 MVAr 138 kV capacitor bank at Joffre 535S (Complete)

• Add one 50 MVAr 138 kV capacitor bank at Prentiss 276S (Complete)

• Add one 27.6 MVAr 138 kV capacitor bank at Ellis 332S (Complete)

• Re-build 5 km of 138 kV transmission line 80L from South Red Deer 194S (use existing breaker) to North Red Deer 217S (use existing breaker) (Complete)

• Re-build 5 km (including 1 km of underground) of 138 kV transmission line 80L from South Red Deer 194S (use existing breaker) to Red Deer 63S (use existing breaker) (Complete)

• Re-build 29 km of 138 kV transmission line 755L from Red Deer 63S (use existing breaker) to Piper Creek 247S (use existing breaker) to Joffre 535S (use existing breaker) (Complete)

• Re-build 33 km of 138 kV transmission line 717L (now lines 637L and 648L) from Red Deer 63S (use existing breaker) to Sylvan Lake (use existing breaker) to Benalto (use existing breaker) (Complete)

• Construct a new Johnson 281S 240/138 kV substation with 240 kV double circuit (200 m) from line 918L, 2 km of 138 kV double-circuit to line 80L, and a connection to line 166L (Complete and Commissioned)

• Construct a new 240/138 kV Wolf Creek 288S substation with 240 kV double circuit (200 m) from line 910L, and 4 km of double-circuit 138 kV line to Ponoka 331S (use existing breaker from salvage of D13 and D16) to connect to line 883L (Complete)

• Construct a new 240/138 kV Hazelwood 287S station on the 240 kV line 924L (In Progress)

• Add 13 km of 138 kV transmission line from Lacombe 212S (add 1 breaker) to Ellis 332S (add 1 breaker) (In Progress)

• Salvage 53 km of 138 kV transmission line 80L from Red Deer 63S to Innisfail 214S (Not Started)

• Salvage 23 km of 138 kV transmission line 80L from Ponoka 331S to West Lacombe 958S (this will be less by the approx. 5 km of salvage now part of Wolf Creek (CP44)) (Not Started)

• Salvage 40 km of 716L from Wetaskiwin 40S to Ponoka 331S. The length of line will be reduced by the approx. 5 km of salvage that is now part of Wolf Creek (CP44) (Not Started)

Stage II

The timing of stage II (rebuilding of existing 1line 166L to higher capacity) is linked to a milestone of load in the area reaching 825 MW and/or a new generator application in the area. The recent load forecast indicates the Red Deer region load will not reach this level in the next 20 year period. No work will be done on Stage II until this milestone is met.


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The Needs Identification Document (NID) was filed with the AUC in July 2011 and approved in April 2012. The in-service dates are for the project components are in stages, with the first date in 2013. Facilities Applications were also filed in stages. As indicated above several reinforcements are already in service.

TFO Contact

Darren Bonar Project Manager AltaLink 2611 – 3rd Avenue SE 403-387-8264 (direct) 403-519-4341 (mobile) [email protected]

AESO Contact

Ed Mayer Project Manager, Transmission Projects Alberta Electric System Operator (AESO) 2500, 330 – 5th Avenue SW Calgary, AB T2P 0L4 403-539-2757 (direct) [email protected]

Project 850 − South and West of Edmonton Transmission Development − Updated 2.1.5

The NID was filed with the AUC in December 2012 and approved in December 2013. Facilities Applications of AltaLink were approved in Q4 2016. The expected in-service date is December 2017. This project addresses the need for development in the area South and West of Edmonton. The approved alternative includes the following reinforcements, which are under construction:

• A new Harry Smith 367S 240/138 kV substation south of Stony Plain with two 240/138 kV 400 MVA transformers. The substation will be connected by an in and out connection to line 1043L between Keephills 320P and Petrolia 816S.

• A new Saunders Lake 289S 240/138 kV station north of Leduc with two 240/138 kV 400 MVA transformers. The substation will be connected by an in and out connection to line 910L between Ellerslie 89S and Wolf Creek 288S, and connected by an in and out connection to line 914L between Ellerslie 89S and Bigstone 86S.

• A new 25 km 138 kV line from line 780L to Cooking Lake, and reconfiguration

• A new 13 km 138 kV line from Harry Smith 369S to East Stoney Plain 434S

• Two new 13 km 138 kV lines from Harry Smith 367S to Acheson 305S

• Two new 1 km 138 Kv lines from Saunders Lake 289S to connect lines 780L and 868L

• Normally open operation of line 133L between Wabamun 19S and the 243L tap

• New capacitor banks at Leduc 325S (27 MVAr)




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TFO Contact

Aaron Pais Project Manager AltaLink 2611 3rd Avenue SE Calgary, AB T2A 7W7 403-267-4221 [email protected]

AESO Contact


Project 1354 – Foothills Area Transmission Development 138 kV Transmission Line 2.1.6between ENMAX SS-65 and ENMAX SS-41

The AESO identified the need for the Foothills Transmission Area Development (“FATD”) system development in the Calgary, High River, and Okotoks Areas in its Long-term Transmission System Plan. On July 5, 2012, the AESO filed with the Alberta Utilities Commission (AUC) for approval of the NID for the FATD East (AESO project 1117) on proposed transmission expansions in the vicinities of Southeast Calgary, Okotoks and High River. As mentioned earlier, FATD East project is in service. This project is supplementary to the FATD East project (AESO P1117) for the purpose of alleviating residual capacity constraints up to the 2019 timeframe in the area. The project also restores the connectivity between ENMAX SS-26 and ENMAX SS-32 substations. The proposed developments include:

• Construct a 138 kV transmission line between ENMAX SS-65 substation and ENMAX SS-41 substation via ENMAX SS-54 substation;

• Augmentation to ENMAX SS-65 and SS-41 substations for terminations of the new 138 kV circuit to ENMAX SS-54 substation;

• Restore 138 kV connectivity between SS-26 and SS-32 substations. The expected in-service date for the transmission developments is Q3 2017.

TFO Contact

Aidan Gannon Project Manager ENMAX Corporation 141 - 50 Avenue SE Calgary, AB T2G 4S7 403-514-3125 (Direct)




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403-903-2371 (Cell) [email protected]

AESO Contact

Roghoyeh Salmeh Project Manager, Transmission System Projects Alberta Electric System Operator (AESO) 587-952-4944 (direct) [email protected]

2.2 Connection Projects There are currently no customer connection projects under construction at this time that are major generation projects 200 MW and above, or load connection on the bulk system in proximity to WECC Path 1.




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3 Projects Pending Approval 3.1 System Projects The following projects are pending NID or Facility Application approval from the AUC.

Project 1781 − Provost to Edgerton & Nilrem to Vermilion Transmission System 3.1.1Reinforcement

The NID was filed with the AUC in December 2016 and approval is pending. The expected in service date is March 2021.

This project has the following major components:

• 240 kV line (operated at 144 kV) from Nilrem 574S (AltaLink) to new Drury 2007S (ATCO)

• A new 144 kV Drury 2007S substation

• 240 kV line (operated at 138 kV) from Hansman Lake 650S to Edgerton 899S (In AltaLink’s service area)

AESO Contact


Project 1113 - Hanna Region Transmission Development Phase 2 3.1.2

The Hanna Region Transmission Development Project is designed to reinforce the transmission system in the region in order to meet the projected wind aggregated generating facilities and future load growth, in particular, pipeline pumping loads. AML and ATCO are transmission facility owners (TFOs) as this area is serviced by these two TFOs. The major components of this project consist of:

String second side on the 240 kV double circuit line from Oakland to Lanfine and related alterations at Oakland 946S and Lanfine 959S

Cordell 755S to Halkirk switching station, new double circuit 240 kV line (one side strung) and related alterations

String second side on the 240 kV double circuits line from Oakland 946S to Coyote Lake 963S and related alterations at Oakland 946S and Lanfine 959S.

Additionally, the following components are designed to reinforce the local network:

Convert the existing Hanna 763S station to a 144 kV station

Add a 144 kV line from Coyote Lake 963S to Hanna 763S and related alterations

Add a second 300 MVA 240/144 kV transformer at Pemukan 932S

Add a second 300 MVA 240/144 kV transformer at Lanfine 959S



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Add a second 200 MVA 240/144 kV transformer at Hansman Lake 650S

Nilrem 574S station capacitor banks addition

Hansman Lake 650S station capacitor banks addition

Metiskow 648S station capacitor bank additions

Add one new 5 MVAR, 72 kV capacitor bank at Youngstown 772S substation

Add one new 2.4 MVAR, 25 kV capacitor bank at Coronation 773S substation

Decommission line 6L44 (Rowley 768S to Big Valley 778S) and line 6L22 (Michichi Creek 802S to Rowley 768S)

As per NID approval, the requested in-service date for Phase 2 is during 2017. In light of a change in system conditions (i.e., modest growth in load demand and uncertainty regarding wind development), the AESO is presently reviewing the need as well as timing of the components through staging process. The project is on hold until these studies are finalized.

AESO Contact

Ed Mayer Project Manager, System Projects Alberta Electric System Operator (AESO) 2500, 330 – 5th Avenue SW Calgary, AB T2P 0L4 403-539-2757 (direct) [email protected]

Project 1456 – Calgary Downtown Transmission Reinforcement 3.1.3

On November 18, 2015, the AESO filed its NID for Transmission System Reinforcement in Downtown Calgary with the AUC. On June 1, 2016, the AUC approved the AESO’s NID.

ENMAX is the TFO in the area. While the AESO is responsible for identifying that transmission system development is needed, ENMAX is responsible for detailed siting and routing, constructing, operating and maintaining the associated transmission facilities. ENMAX is currently in the process of obtaining its required regulatory approvals

The Downtown Calgary Area is a sub-area of the AESO’s Calgary Planning Area (Area 6). The load in the Downtown Calgary Area is supplied by an existing local 138 kV transmission network, which comprises three 138 kV substations: ENMAX No. 1, No. 5 and No. 8 substations, and the associated 138 kV transmission lines connecting to these three substations.

This project addresses an identified need for a new 138 kV transmission circuit to serve the forecast load growth in the downtown Calgary area. The project scope includes:

• Construction of a new 138 kV single circuit to interconnect ENMAX No.2 and No.8 substations

• Install the required equipment at the ENMAX No.2 and No.8 substations to facilitate reliable Integration of the new 138 kV circuit into the Alberta Interconnected Electric System.

ENMAX plans to file the Facility Application by end of September 2017. The project in-service date is Q1 2021.



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TFO Contact

Kevin Neithercut Sr. Engineer, Transmission Planning ENMAX Corporation 141 - 50 Avenue SE Calgary, AB T2G 4S7 403-514-1544 (Direct) [email protected]

AESO Contact

Roghoyeh Salmeh Project Manager, System Projects Alberta Electric System Operator (AESO) 587-952-4944 (direct) [email protected]

3.2 Connection Projects The projects listed in this section are customer connection projects. These are either major generation projects with 200 MW and above or load connection on the bulk system in proximity to the WECC Path 1.

Project 479 - Naturener Wild Rose Wind Farm - Updated 3.2.1

Wild Rose 1, a 210 MW wind-powered generating facility, is comprised of 70 x 3 MW wind turbine generators with a collector substation located approximately 45 km southeast of the City of Medicine Hat. This wind power plant will be connected from the Wild Rose 547S station to the Elkwater 264S station via a single circuit 240 kV line. The proposed in-service date for the interconnection of Wild Rose 1 is August 1,2018. The Facilities Application was approved by the Alberta Utilities Commission on March 21, 2012.

TFO Contact

Nick Kabongo Project Manager AltaLink 2611 - 3rd Avenue SE Calgary, AB T2A 7W7 403-267-5968 [email protected]

AESO Contact

Rick Marshall Project Manager, Transmission Connection Projects Alberta Electric System Operator (AESO) 2500, 330 – 5th Avenue SW Calgary, AB T2P 0L4 403-539-2765 (direct) [email protected]






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Project 693 - Naturener Wild Rose Wind Farm Phase 2 - Updated 3.2.2

Wild Rose 2, a 189 MW wind-powered generating facility, is comprised of 63 x 3 MW wind turbine generators with a collector substation located approximately 30 km south of the City of Medicine Hat. In the near future, the wind power facility will be expanded to have a total of 204 MW installed capacity. This wind power plant will be connected from the Eagle Butte 274S station to the Elkwater 264S station via a single circuit 240 kV line.

The proposed in-service date for the interconnection of Wild Rose 2 is August 1, 2018. The Facilities Application was approved by the Alberta Utilities Commission on March 21, 2012.

TFO Contact

Nick Kabongo Project Manager AltaLink 2611 - 3rd Avenue SE Calgary, AB T2A 7W7 403-267-5968 [email protected]

AESO Contact

Rick Marshall Project Manager,Transmission Connection Projects Alberta Electric System Operator (AESO) 2500, 330 – 5th Avenue SW Calgary, AB T2P 0L4 403-539-2765 (direct) [email protected]




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Project 1590 − Fort McMurray West 500 kV Line − Updated 3.2.3

The project was part of Project 838 − Fort McMurray Area Transmission Bulk System Reinforcement. The project consists primarily of one 500 kV AC line from Sunnybrook station to the new Thickwood 500/240 kV station in the Fort McMurray area with a target operation date of June 2019. The project was competitively procured as required by legislation, and Alberta PowerLine Ltd. (consortium) was selected by the AESO in December 2014 as bid winner. Alberta PowerLine Ltd. Filed its Facility Application with the AUC on December 1, 2015 and received approval on February 10, 2017.. http://www.albertapowerline.com/

As this project was approved through legislation, a transmission need approval was not required from the AUC.

AESO Contact

Pauline McLean Director, Competitive Process Renewables Development & Sustainability Alberta Electric System Operator (AESO) 403-539-2904 (direct) [email protected]

http://www.albertapowerline.com/



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4 Projects in the Planning Process The following projects are on the project list or in the connection queue that have yet to file applications to the Alberta Utilities Commission.

4.1 System Projects The projects listed in this section are transmission system enhancement projects. Reconsideration of transmission development in the NW and Central planning regions is under review in light of the Government’s recently announced Climate Leadership Plan.

Project 1785 – Grande Prairie Loop Transmission Reinforcement 4.1.1

The Grande Prairie Loop 144kV system is connected to the NW transmission network of the AIES through three existing 144 kV transmission lines. The project’s need is to reinforce the load serving capability of the local Grande Prairie Loop; it calls for the construction of a new 144 kV single circuit transmission line from Clairmont Lake 811S to Poplar Hill 790S substation for an approximate length of 42.8 km.

The AESO recently completed its Participant Involvement Program (PIP) activities and is planning to file NID application with the AUC in Q2 2017.

AESO Contact

Vladimir Lopez Project Manager, System Projects Alberta Electric System Operator (AESO) 2500, 330 – 5th Avenue SW Calgary, AB, T2P 0L4 403-539-2839 (direct) [email protected]

ATCO Contact

Rosaria Obazee Project Manager, Transmission Projects ATCO Electric Ltd. 14th Floor, 10035 – 105 St. Edmonton, AB T5J 2V6 780-508-4798 (direct) [email protected]

Project 1784 – Rycroft Transmission Reinforcement 4.1.2

The Rycroft Area is connected to the NW transmission network of the AIES through two existing 144 kV transmission lines. At one end, the Rycroft Area connects to Clairmont Lake 811S substation through 7L68 and to the West Peace River 793S substation in the north-end through 7L75, The existing system in Rycroft study area is capable of serving the current load under N-0 and N-1 conditions. Historical load growth since 2010 has been approximately flat, with 66 MW winter peak (“WP”) and 58 MW summer peak (“SP”) load. However, ATCO DFO has submitted three System Access Service Requests (“SASRs”) to collectively serve 38 MW of new load in the area by 2017. Two of these Demand for Transmission Service (“DTS”) increases are at existing substations in the Rycroft study area and one for serving load at



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a new substation (21 MW DTS). Without transmission reinforcement, the Rycroft study area load will exceed the capability of the existing transmission system under N-1 conditions. This project will address the load serving capability of the study area.

The AESO is currently completing a VAR Support Study for the project and is expected to obtain NID-level cost estimates and a land impact assessment by mid-May 2017. The plan is to complete consultation by the end of Q4 2017.

AESO Contact

Vladimir Lopez Project Manager, System Projects Alberta Electric System Operator (AESO) 2500, 330 – 5th Avenue SW Calgary, AB, T2P 0L4 403-539-2839 (direct) [email protected]

ATCO Contact

Rosaria Obazee Project Manager, Transmission Projects ATCO Electric Ltd. 14th Floor, 10035 – 105 St. Edmonton, AB T5J 2V6 780-508-4798 (direct) [email protected]

4.2 Connection Projects The projects listed in this section are customer connection projects. These are either major generation projects with 200 MW and above or load connection on the bulk system in proximity to the WECC Path 1.

Project 515 − Heritage Energy Centre 4.2.1

The proposed Heritage wind farm is a 350 MW wind farm planned to be connected to the Alberta Interconnected Electric System through Heritage Hill 110S collector substation connected to the adjacent Fidler 312S station in the Pincher Creek area.

The requested in-service date for the project is October 15, 2018.

GFO Contact

Francis Wang Executive Director, Transmission Business Management NextEra Energy Resources, LLC 700 Universe Blvd, Juno Beach, FL 33408



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AESO Contact

Craig Killoran Project Manager Transmission Connection Projects Alberta Electric System Operator (AESO) 2500, 330 – 5th Avenue SW Calgary, AB T2P 0L4 403-539-2565 (direct) craig.killoran @aeso.ca

Project 1080 − Old Elm & Pothole Creek Wind Farm − Update 4.2.2

The customer is considering a 60 MW wind farm located in the Glenwood area close to Magrath 225S. The customer is currently investigating the feasibility of a connection into the Alberta Interconnected Electric System through a 138 kV line into Magrath 225S. The requested in-service date for the project is December 31, 2018.

GFO Contact

Marc Stachiw Old Elm Wind Farm Ltd. #1320, 396-11th Ave SW Calgary, Alberta T2R 0C5 403-266-5635 [email protected]

AESO Contact

Craig Killoran Project Manager, Transmission Connection Projects Alberta Electric System Operator (AESO) 2500, 330 – 5th Avenue SW Calgary, AB T2P 0L4 403-539-2565 (direct) [email protected]

Project 1290 – Whitetail Peaking Station 4.2.3

Enbridge Inc. has proposed to construct the Whitetail Peaking Station as a new point of supply. The plant consists of 4 x 50 MW gas-fired peaking units. The project is to be developed in one stage with an in-service date of October 1, 2018.

The power plant is located in the Peace River planning area (Area 19) approximately 13.5 km north of the existing Wesley Creek 834S station and will be connected via t-tap to 7L106.

mailto:craig.killoran%[email protected]




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TFO Contact

Nilesh Rana Project Manager, Transmission Projects ATCO Electric 10035 - 105 Street Edmonton, AB T5J 2V6 Ph: 780-509-2057 Cell: 780-289-5045

AESO Contact

Craig Killoran Project Manager Transmission Connection Projects Alberta Electric System Operator (AESO) 2500, 330 - 5th Ave SW Calgary, AB, T2P 0L4 403-539-2565 (direct) [email protected]

Project 1321 – Three Creeks Power Plant - Update 4.2.4

Three Creeks Power has proposed to build a new Cogeneration Facility approximately 16 km northeast of the existing 240 kV Wesley Creek 834S station in the northwest region of Alberta. The requested in service date for the project is September 1, 2018.

TFO Contact

Sridhar Rao Project Manager, Transmission Projects ATCO Electric 10035 105 Street Edmonton, AB T5J 2V6 Ph: 780-508-4678 Cell: 780-686-6431

AESO Contact

Craig Killoran Project Manager, Transmission Connection Projects Alberta Electric System Operator (AESO) 2500, 330 - 5th Ave SW Calgary, AB, T2P 0L4 403-539-2565 (direct) [email protected]




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Project 1421 - ATCO Power Heartland Generating Station - Updated 4.2.5

On March 8, 2013, ATCO Power Canada Ltd. (“ATCO Power”) Canada Ltd. submitted a System Access Service Request (SASR) to the AESO proposing to construct a combined cycle power station called ATCO Heartland Generation Station. The project will consist of one natural gas-fired turbine and one steam turbine, with a requested Supply Transmission Service (STS) contract of 510 MW.

The facility is planned to be connected to the Josephburg 410S substation near the City of Fort Saskatchewan.

The expected in-service date of this project is November 1, 2019.

TFO Contact

Leanna Wysiecki AltaLink Management Ltd. 525 – 28th Street SE Calgary, AB T2A 6W9 403-387-8322 [email protected]

AESO Contact

Steve Palmer Transmission Connection Projects Alberta Electric System Operator (AESO) 2500, 330 – 5th Avenue SW Calgary, AB T2P 0L4 403-539-2558 (direct) 403-463-6073 (mobile) [email protected]

Project 1440 − Genesee Generating Station - Unit 4 (G4) and Unit 5 (G5) − Update 4.2.6

On April 30, 2013, the AESO received a system access service request (SASR) from Capital Power L.P. to connect two 505 MW natural gas-fired combined cycle blocks (Capital Power Energy Centre - CPEC) to the AIES at the Genesee power generation site. Each combined cycle block will consist of two gas turbine generators (GTG) and associated steam turbine generator (STG), all on one shaft driving one electrical generator.

CPEC indicated that the gross generation capacity is expected to be up to 1010 MW for both combined cycle blocks, which could be developed in stages. The study assumes that the gross capacity of the proposed generating station is 1010 MW. The customer has also requested Demand Transmission Service (DTS) of 50 MW for station load service.

On March 16, 2016, the AESO applied to the AUC for approval of a NID to expand Genesee 330P Substation to connect the Genesee Generating Station units 4 and 5 to the Alberta Interconnected Electric System. Subsequently, on March 26, 2016, the AUC approved the NID and issued Substation Permit and License and Connection Order to EPCOR



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The transmission facility in-service date is currently expected to be February 2019. Commercial operation dates for generation are August 2020 for Genesee 4, and December 2021 for Genesee 5. However, CPEC indicated that this date is subject to change due to market conditions.

TFO Contact

Mark Bensted EPCOR Distribution and Transmission Inc. 2000, 10423 - 101 Street NW Edmonton AB (780) 412-3249 [email protected]

AESO Contact

Tana Lailan Transmission Connection Projects Alberta Electric System Operator (AESO) 2500, 330 – 5th Avenue SW Calgary, AB T2P 0L4 403-539-2857 (direct) [email protected]

Project 1477 − TransAlta Sundance 7 Combined Cycle Power Plant – Cancelled 4.2.7

TransAlta MidAmerican (TAMA) Partnership is proposing to construct approximately 850 MW Sundance 7 generating facility in the vicinity of LSD 10-52-4-W5M. The site is located near existing TransAlta generating facilities near Wabamun. Sundance 7 will be a combined cycle power plant consisting of two gas turbine-generators (GT) of approximately 295 MW capacity (345 MVA, 0.85 p.f.) and a single steam turbine-generator (ST) of approximately 345 MW (405 MVA, 0.85 pf). The gross output is approximately 943 MW with an STS capacity of 850 MW. The maximum gross capacity at an average summer temperature of 15.3 degrees Celsius is 818 MW and the net output is 797 MW. The anticipated in service date is June 2018 and the commercial operation date is targeted as January 2019. The customer has indicated that this date is subject to change due to market conditions. TFO Contacts: AltaLink Management Ltd. Mark Reid (Account Manager) 2611 – 3rd Avenue SE Calgary AB 403-365-7474 [email protected] AESO Contact: Tana Lailan Transmission Connection Projects Alberta Electric System Operator (AESO) 2500, 330 – 5th Avenue SW Calgary, AB T2P 0L4 403-539-2857 (direct) [email protected]






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Project 1478 − Rocky Mountain Power ASSISt – Cancelled 4.2.8

Rocky Mountain Power Inc. submitted a System Access Service Request (SASR) to the AESO on September 4, 2013 proposing the development of a compressed air energy storage (CAES) facility. The project is known as Alberta Saskatchewan Intertie Storage (ASISt) and is located in the Lloydminster planning area (AESO planning area 13). The ASISt project is proposed as a 135 to 160 MW compressed air energy storage project using salt caverns for the energy storage with potential up to 300 MW. The air cavern storage will be designed for 24 to 60 hours of continuous operation at rated capacity. ASISt is planned to connect to either 138 kV or 240 kV system in the AESO’s Central Region Plan. The facility will potentially have the capability to operate as “Power Source” (generating) or as “Power Sink” (compressing). The study will assess and determine the generation and compression final capacities by taking into consideration the existing system topology in proposed alternatives. The requested in service date is December 31, 2020. AESO Contact: Tana Lailan Transmission Connection Projects Alberta Electric System Operator (AESO) 2500, 330 – 5th Avenue SW Calgary, AB T2P 0L4 403-539-2857 (direct) [email protected]

Project 1467 − H.R. Milner 2 (M2) Generator − Cancelled 4.2.9

Maxim Power Corp. (MAXIM) is proposing to install two natural gas-fired turbines and two steam turbines operating as two blocks in a 1GT on 1ST configuration. This facility expansion, to be named Maxim Power Milner 2 Expansion (M2), will be located near existing H.R. Milner generating plant in NW Alberta. The base load gross generation capacity for this facility is approximately 538 MW. The project will be completed in two 269 MW phases, for a total of 538 MW. The target In-Service-Date (ISD) for Phase 1 is November 1, 2019. Phase 2 ISD target is November 1, 2021. MAXIM anticipates approximately 2 x 8.6 MW (17.2 MW) for station service and auxiliary loads when the unit is operational. AESO Contact: Gerardo Marquez Transmission Connection Projects Alberta Electric System Operator (AESO) 2500, 330 – 5th Avenue SW Calgary, AB T2P 0L4 403-539-2917 (direct) [email protected]

Project 1567 − Sharp Hills Wind Farm 4.2.10

On June 4, 2014 Sharp Hills Wind Farm Ltd. filed a SASR with the AESO to connect a 300 MW wind power generating facility to the Alberta Interconnected Electric System. On October 16, 2015, the EDP Renewables SH Project Limited Partnership (EDPR) became the legal owner of the project. Sharp Hills wind farm will be located in the Hanna planning area (Area 42) in the Central East Planning Region. The facility is located within ATCO Electric Ltd. service area. The requested in-service date is December 31, 2019. The EDPR is planning to file its generator plant application by July/August of 2017. After that the AESO will proceed with filing the NID application with the AUC (targeting October, 2017).




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AESO Contact

Tana Lailan Transmission Connection Projects Alberta Electric System Operator (AESO) 2500, 330 – 5th Avenue SW Calgary, AB T2P 0L4 403-539-2857 (direct) [email protected]

Project 1885 – Joss Wind Power Northern Lights – New 4.2.11

On November 1,2016, Joss Wind Power Inc. requested system access service to install a 400 MW wind power generating facility in the Swan Hills planning area (Area 26). This new point of supply will be located in the Swan Hills Planning Area 26, north of ATCO’s existing Louise Creek 809S station. The requested in-service date for the proposed generation facility is September 1, 2019 with planned commercial operation date of December 1, 2019.

AESO Contact


Project 1724 – BowArk Energy Echo Wind Power – Cancelled 4.2.12

On December 8, 2015 BowArk Energy Limited (“BowArk”) submitted a System Access Service Request to the AESO requesting a connection of its wind power facility to the grid. The project is to be located in the Hanna planning area (area 42). BowArk is applying for 300 MW of generation capacity with a requested In-Service-Date (ISD) of December 1, 2019. BowArk has also expressed interest in alternatively reducing the plant capacity to only 144 MW and connect to the 138 kV side of the Lanfine 959S substation in the event that sufficient capacity for a 300 MW plant cannot be found at 240 kV. AESO Contact: Craig Killoran Project Manager Transmission Connection Projects Alberta Electric System Operator (AESO) 2500, 330 - 5th Ave SW Calgary, AB, T2P 0L4 403-539-2565 (direct) [email protected]

Project 1734 Suncor Forty Mile Wind Farm – New 4.2.13

On January 6, 2016 Suncor Energy submitted a System Access Service Request to the AESO to connect their proposed 200 MW wind farm to the grid. The proposed wind farm is in the Medicine Hat planning area (Area 4). Suncor has requested an in-service date of Q4 2019.





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AESO Contact


Project 1767 − Renewable Energy Systems Canada (RESC) Forty Mile Wind Power 4.2.14Plant − New

On February 5, 2016 RESC submitted a System Access Service Request to the AESO requesting connection of its 350 MW wind power facility to the grid located in the Medicine Hat planning area (Area 4). RESC has requested an in-service date of Q2 2019.

AESO Contact

Doug Walker Project Co-ordinator, Transmission Connection Projects Alberta Electric System Operator (AESO) 2500, 330 – 5th Avenue SW Calgary, AB T2P 0L4 403-539-2934 (direct) [email protected]

Project 1800 Capital Power Whitla Wind Power Facility - New 4.2.15

On May 25, 2016 Capital Power submitted a System Access Service Request to the AESO requesting connection of its 300 MW wind power facility to the grid located in the Medicine Hat planning area (Area 4). The project has a requested an in-service date of Q3 2019.

AESO Contact

Mark Appelt Project Manager, Transmission Connection Projects Alberta Electric System Operator (AESO) 2500, 330 – 5th Avenue SW Calgary, AB T2P 0L4 403-539-4943 (direct) [email protected]

Project 1812 Suncor Forty Mile WAGF Phase 2 - New 4.2.16

On July 4, 2016 Capital Power submitted a System Access Service Request to the AESO requesting connection of its 200 MW wind power facility to the grid located in the Medicine Hat planning area (Area 4). The project has a requested an in-service date of May 1, 2020.





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AESO Contact


Project 1861 − Enterprise Bighorn WAGF − New 4.2.17

On September 7, 2016 Enterprise submitted a System Access Service Request to the AESO requesting connection of its 325 MW wind power facility to the grid located in the Stavely planning area (Area 49). The project has a requested an in-service date of Q1 2019.

AESO Contact


Project 1875 − EDF EN Red Rock WAGF − New 4.2.18

On October 14, 2016 EDF EN submitted a System Access Service Request to the AESO requesting connection of its 250 MW wind power facility to the grid located in the Medicine Hat planning area (Area 4). The project has a requested an in-service date of October 1, 2019.

AESO Contact


Project 1896 − EDF EN Cypress WAGF − New 4.2.19

On November 22, 2016 EDF EN submitted a System Access Service Request to the AESO requesting connection of its 250 MW wind power facility to the grid located in the Medicine Hat planning area (Area 4). The project has a requested an in-service date of October 1, 2019.





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AESO Contact


Project 1924 − ENMAX Zephyr Wind − New 4.2.20

On October 14, 2016 ENMAX submitted a System Access Service Request to the AESO requesting connection of its 200 MW wind power facility to the grid located in the Vauxhall planning area (Area 52). The project has a requested an in-service date of Q4 2019.

AESO Contact

Doug Walker Project Manager, Transmission Connection Projects Alberta Electric System Operator (AESO) 2500, 330 – 5th Avenue SW Calgary, AB T2P 0L4 403-539-2934 (direct) [email protected]

Project 1797 − RES Oyen Wind − New 4.2.21

On May 16, 2016 Renewable Energy Systems Canada Inc (RES) submitted a System Access Service Request to the AESO requesting connection of its 220 MW wind power facility to the grid located in the Hanna planning area (Area 42). The project has a requested an in-service date of June 28, 2019.

AESO Contact

Doug Walker Project Manager, Transmission Connection Projects Alberta Electric System Operator (AESO) 2500, 330 – 5th Avenue SW Calgary, AB T2P 0L4 403-539-2934 (direct) [email protected]

Project 1760 − EDF EN Fort Saskatchewan WAGF – New 4.2.22

On March 15, 2016 EDF EN Canada Development Inc. (EDF) submitted a System Access Service Request to the AESO requesting a connection for a new 300 MW wind aggregated generation facility to the grid located in the Fort Saskatchewan (Area 33) area. The requested in-service date for this project is October 1, 2019.





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AESO Contact

Charlie Hogarth Project Manager, Transmission Connection Projects Alberta Electric System Operator (AESO) 2500, 330 5th Avenue SW Calgary, AB, T2P 0L4 403-539-2625 (direct) [email protected]

Project 1761 − EDF EN Hand Hills WAGF – New 4.2.23

On March 15, 2016 EDF EN Canada Development Inc. (EDF) submitted a System Access Service Request to the AESO requesting a connection for a new 200 MW wind aggregrated generation facility to the grid located in the Sheerness (Area 43) area. The requested in-service date for this project is October 1, 2019.

AESO Contact

Charlie Hogarth Project Manager, Transmission Connection Projects Alberta Electric System Operator (AESO) 2500, 330 5th Avenue SW Calgary, AB, T2P 0L4 403-539-2625 (direct) [email protected]

Project 1827 − Suncor Cogeneration Project – New 4.2.24

On July 29, 2016, Suncor Energy Inc. (Suncor) submitted a SASR to the AESO for the addition of generation at their Base Plant in Fort McMurray. The project will add approximately 700 MW (2 x 350 MW) gas turbines to their current generation capacity. Suncor has requested an in-service date of July 1, 2021.

AESO Contact

Steve Palmer Project Manager, Transmission Connection Projects Alberta Electric System Operator (AESO) 2500, 330 5th Avenue SW Calgary, AB, T2P 0L4 403-539-2558 (direct) [email protected]




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