Connecting Communities: Wataynikaneyap Power Transmission Project
Supporting remote First Nations with ~1,800 km of transmission lines and associated substations for a brighter future
Wataynikaneyap Power LP
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The Homeland of Anishiniiniiwug and Anishnabeg
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2018-2024
$1 billion savings over 40 years compared to continued diesel generation
Building 1,800 km of transmission lines connecting 16 First Nations
22 substations built to interconnect the distribution to the communities and to connect with the provincial power grid
6.6 million tonnes of CO2 greenhouse gas emissions avoided
Challenges
- Wataynikaneyap Power LP wanted to build 1,800 km of new transmission lines and associated substations to connect remote First Nations to Ontario’s power grid, and eliminate diesel as their primary source of power generation.
- This work involved navigating challenging geographic and weather conditions, as well as logistical hurdles due to a limited road network and extreme weather.
- Wataynikaneyap Power LP hired an Owner’s Engineer to help ensure significant benefits for First Nations, and compliance with environmental regulations and permitting requirements.
Solutions
- Played a critical role as the Owner's engineer, supporting the shortlisting and selection process for EPC contractor, technical reviews and compliance, monitoring and reporting on benefits to First Nations, field inspections, contracts management, and oversight into environmental and technical compliance and permitting.
- Developed a comprehensive EPC RFP and technical specifications, and carried out technical reviews of EPC Contractor submissions.
- Developed and implemented contracts management procedures.
- Assisted in developing comprehensive environmental and social management plans for the project.
- Monitored and audited construction operations to ensure compliance with the EPC contract, Environmental Assessment, and permitting commitments.
- Assisted the owners with monitoring health and safety requirements in the EPC contract, including during the COVID-19 pandemic when monitoring and strict adherence to protocols were required. Able to provide qualified health and safety staff as needed.
Highlights
- This project represents an unprecedented First Nations-led engagement, connecting 16 remote communities to Ontario's power grid, with infrastructure owned equally by a partnership of 24 First Nations (51%), and with Fortis Inc. and other private investors. A 17th community will be connected in the future.
- Approximately1,800 km of transmission lines (230 kV, 115 kV, 44 kV and 25 kV) and 22 substations built to connect remote First Nations with the provincial electric grid.
- The new substations and transmission lines are expected to generate $1 billion in savings over 40 years, compared to continued diesel generation.
“Hatch provided their professional expertise and support to Wataynikaneyap, which enabled the vision of our People to build the infrastructure that connects remote First Nations to clean, reliable power. This is a success story of one of the largest Indigenous-led projects in Canada. Miigwech to Hatch for being our eyes and ears on this project.”
Project Numbers
24 First Nations in equal partnership and 51% ownership, in partnership with Fortis Inc. and other private investors.
1,800 km of transmission lines built (230 kV, 115 kV, 44 kV and 25 kV).
$1 billion+ saved through sustainable power generation.
6.6 million tonnes of avoided CO2 emissions.
22 substations built.
~8 million person-hours throughout construction.