Underground Transmission Lines
A number of stakeholders have expressed a preference for the transmission line being buried underground. In response to stakeholder feedback, the Alberta Electric System Operator (AESO), in recent months, undertook a technical feasibility study of using underground transmission for a portion of a larger 500 kV overhead transmission project.
On February 24, 2010, the Alberta Electric System Operator (AESO) announced the results of a study on the technical feasibility of 500 kV underground transmission. The study indicates the application of a 500 kV underground cable system is technically feasible with the condition that further testing be conducted to validate the feasibility of the cable and its accessories in Alberta's cold weather conditions.
To view the Study, please visit the AESO's website at www.aeso.ca or www.poweringalberta.com.
Other Studies: The Government of Alberta Department of Energy commissioned a study in 2009 with a focus on current and future transmission technologies, including Underground lines. The study was released on February 10, 2010.
To view the Study Report, click here.
Stakeholder-requested Option | Underground and EMF