Two of Alberta’s electric utilities have completed a 135-kilometre transmission line between Red Deer and Stettler.
ATCO and AltaLink announced Thursday the successful energization of the Central East Transfer-Out (CETO) project.
The double-circuit, 240-kilovolt transmission line is designed to move electricity generated in central and eastern Alberta to other areas of the province.
The project was backed by a multimillion-dollar loan from the federal Canada Infrastructure Bank.
“CETO represents a step in the right direction for Alberta energy and economic growth,” said Jason Sharpe, chief operating officer of ATCO Energy Systems.
The construction workload was split between the two companies under the direction of the Alberta Electric System Operator (AESO).
AltaLink constructed a 50-kilometre stretch east of Red Deer and upgraded its existing Gaetz substation.
ATCO built the remaining 85 kilometres of the line and expanded its Tinchebray substation near Stettler.
Rob Davidson, vice-president of grid reliability for the AESO, said expanding transmission capacity in the region will enable future generation development.
“The energization of the CETO project marks an important milestone in strengthening Alberta’s electricity system,” Davidson said. “It reflects years of planning, collaboration, and construction across the electricity industry.”
Author: Landin Chambers
Landin Chambers is a news reporter for Hometown Media Stettler. He has a background in broadcast news, with previous roles in Prince George, Red Deer and Calgary. You may also see him as a cameraman for the Stettler Wildcats and Stettler Imperials. Have a story idea? Email: lchambers@htproductionsmedia.ca
