Ontario Reaches Major Milestone on Northwest GTA Transmission Line Project
Ontario reduces land footprint for the GTA Transmission Corridor as part of its plan to deliver reliable energy and support housing growth across the region.
PEEL REGION — The Ontario government has reached a new milestone in the Northwest GTA Transmission Corridor Identification Study, announcing plans to release lands no longer needed for the project. The move will reduce the protected corridor area by approximately 40 per cent, ensuring that Ontario continues to meet growing energy needs efficiently while unlocking more land for housing and community development.
The transmission corridor, which will run parallel to Highway 413, is a cornerstone of the government’s long-term Energy for Generations plan — designed to deliver reliable, affordable, and secure energy to one of the fastest-growing regions in the province.
“As Ontario’s population and economy continue to grow in the GTHA, we are planning ahead and building for future generations,” said Stephen Lecce, Minister of Energy and Mines. “This milestone reflects our government’s commitment to deliver reliable, cost-effective energy infrastructure that meets growing energy demand, while keeping energy affordable for families.”
According to the Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO), Halton, Peel, and York regions are experiencing electricity demand growth far above the provincial average. The new corridor will support transmission capacity of 230 kV and 500 kV lines, ensuring that businesses and households across the northwest GTA have access to dependable power.
“Our government is fighting gridlock and unlocking Ontario’s full economic potential by building Highway 413,” said Prabmeet Sarkaria, Minister of Transportation. “Aligning the Northwest GTA Transmission Corridor with Highway 413 means we’re keeping Ontarians moving while meeting electricity demand for generations to come.”
The corridor design is based on a 2019 study that aimed to identify a technically feasible, environmentally responsible route for future transmission infrastructure. The refined alignment prioritizes co-location with Highway 413, minimizes environmental impacts, and avoids built-up communities.
“This milestone creates the conditions for more homes to be built by making it easier for communities to grow,” said Rob Flack, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing. “Working across government, we are bringing the dream of homeownership within reach for more hardworking families in Halton, Peel, and York Region.”
The Ministry of Energy and Mines, along with the Ministry of Transportation, is seeking public input through the Environmental Registry of Ontario, with final land-use plans and the release of surplus lands expected by December 2025.
This update follows the government’s broader efforts to expand Ontario’s infrastructure through the $30 billion transportation investment plan, and aligns with ongoing work to strengthen Ontario’s energy system through Energy for Generations, a comprehensive plan to power the strongest economy in the G7.
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