Hydro One seeks permit to export electricity

Summary#

Hydro One Networks Inc. has applied to the Canada Energy Regulator for permission to export electricity to four seasonal homes on Wellesley Island, New York as a border accommodation. The request covers the period 15 May 2021 through 14 May 2051 and would allow up to 100 kW of power and 200 MWh of firm energy in any consecutive 12‑month period. The CER is asking for public input before deciding on a permit or a licence process.

What it does#

• Requests authorization, under Division 2 of Part 7 of the Canadian Energy Regulator Act, for a Canadian utility to supply U.S. customers across the border.
• Seeks permission to export up to 100 kW and 200 MWh per 12 months to four seasonal residences on Wellesley Island from 15 May 2021 through 14 May 2051.
• Invites written comments from interested parties; submissions to the CER must be filed online and emailed to the applicant.
• Key deadlines in the notice:
  • Written submissions due 19 October 2020.
  • Any answer from the applicant due 3 November 2020.
• The application (dated 18 September 2020) is available on the CER website or by emailing regulatory@hydroone.com. The CER’s Secretary can be contacted at 403‑292‑4800 for procedure questions.

Who's affected#

• The owners or occupants of the four seasonal household residences on Wellesley Island, New York who would receive the power.
• Hydro One Networks Inc., as the company asking for the export permit.
• People or groups who follow cross‑border electricity arrangements and CER decisions (including local regulators and neighbouring communities).
• It is not clear from the notice whether any broader groups (for example, Canadian ratepayers) would be directly affected.

Why it matters#

• It shows how a Canadian utility can legally request to supply power across the border for a long term (30 years in this case).
• The CER is giving the public a chance to weigh in before it issues a permit or moves the file to a licence process.
• For the residents involved, the decision determines whether they can receive service from the Canadian utility under the proposed terms.