Hydro One has completed a $135 million infrastructure upgrade at the Sir Adam Beck Generating Station #2 in Niagara Falls. The project, which began in 2016, involved modernizing the Beck #2 Transformer Station, critical for supplying electricity to both Ontario and New York State.

The upgrades included new circuit breakers, disconnect switches, and other equipment, which will support over 1,500 megawatts of hydroelectric generation. These improvements ensure energy security and reliability for the Niagara Region and beyond for the next four decades.

The completion was marked by a ceremony with key figures including Niagara-on-the-Lake Lord Mayor Gary Zalepa, Hydro One CEO David Lebeter, Minister of Energy and Electrification Stephen Lecce, and Niagara West MPP Sam Oosterhoff. The investment addresses the growing energy needs of Niagara, which has seen a 7% population increase between 2016 and 2021.

"The upgrades will provide increased transmission capacity, supporting Niagara's economic and community growth," said Oosterhoff. Lecce emphasized the government's commitment to expanding clean energy for Ontario's future needs, especially as electricity demand is projected to rise by 60% by 2050.

The Ontario government is also investing an additional $1 billion to extend the life of hydroelectric dams at the Sir Adam Beck I and II stations, with work expected to begin in 2025.

Source: niagaraindependent.ca