Toronto: In a relatively little-known proceeding the Ontario Energy Board has raised issues that could significantly change the way transmission and distribution grids are developed in Ontario. It is asking what can be done to improve the co-ordination between distributors and transmitters that develop electrical facilities that operate on a regional basis.
Hydro One spokesperson Susan Frank has said that “If we were to make one fundamental change that would make infrastructure development more rational it would be regional planning.”
In a submission to the OEB, Hydro One said that it, as both a Transmitter and Distributor, is already engaged in joint planning initiatives with other LDCs in the province. It also noted that “Hydro One Distribution has the lead role in system planning for embedded distributors operating in its service territory and it participates in joint system planning with nearby non-embedded LDCs.”
In its remarks, Hydro One went on to say that in the absence of a formal structure, the current regional planning process is largely ad-hoc. It noted that it would be helpful to have a process in place to identify and prioritize the areas that require a plan, establish the planning standards that should be followed in developing the plan, determine the plan’s scope and time horizon, and identify the parties that should be involved (e.g., municipalities/regions). It would also be helpful if there were an arbitrator in place to make decisions in the regional interest where consensus among parties does not exist.
APPrO expects to participate in the proceeding as it is likely to impact the way connection capacity is developed, as well as the cost responsibilities for connection related infrastructure.
For more information, see the OEB website under EB-2011-0043 Regional Planning Consultation.