The Beck #2 Transformer Station, which houses four of the 26 interties provincewide, underwent comprehensive upgrades. Pictured from left to right: Niagara-on-the-Lake Lord Mayor Gary Zalepa, Hydro One President and CEO David Lebeter, Energy and Electrification Minister Stephen Lecce and Niagara West MPP, Associate Minister of Energy and Intensive Industries, Sam Oosterhoff.
On Monday, Sept. 16, local and provincial officials joined Hydro One in Niagara-on-the-Lake to commemorate the completion of a $135 million infrastructure program to refurbish the Sir Adam Beck Generating Station #2 in Niagara Falls. The restorative project, which began in 2016, will allow the station to provide energy security for consumers in both Ontario and New York State for four more decades.
“I’m pleased to see Hydro One’s investment in the Niagara Region, which will provide increased transmission capacity to support our growing community and local industry,” Sam Oosterhoff, Niagara West MPP and Associate Minister of Energy and Intensive Industries shared in celebration of the milestone announcement. “This upgrade ensures that families and businesses in Niagara have reliable access to clean energy. It’s a vital step in supporting our community’s growth and competitiveness.”
Oosterhoff’s colleague, Minister of Energy and Electrification Stephen Lecce, expanded on the Ford government’s excitement about the announcement.
“We face unprecedented energy demand, which is why Ontario must move with speed to generate and store more clean energy for our families and future,” said Lecce. “This investment by Hydro One is just another part of our plan that will provide thousands of families in the Niagara Region affordable and reliable power for years to come, as we continue to expand and strengthen our grid to attract new economic opportunities and keep rates low for Ontario families and farmers.”
Over the past eight years, the Beck #2 Transformer Station, which houses four of the 26 interties provincewide, underwent comprehensive upgrades, including the installation of new circuit breakers, disconnect switches, a new high-pressure air system and the replacement of all switchyard equipment. The provision of new technology will play a crucial role in supporting the station as it connects more than 1,500 megawatts (MW) of hydroelectric generation through 230kV transmission circuits.
“We celebrate the completion of all upgrades at Hydro One’s Transformer Station,” said Niagara-on-the-lake Lord Mayor Gary Zalepa. “The significant investment in Niagara-on-the-Lake’s electricity system will reduce the impacts of power outages in our region and will ensure our residents and businesses can rely on clean and safe electricity. An investment in this infrastructure today will improve reliability and resiliency for years to come.”
The momentous occasion was also honoured by Hydro One President and CEO David Lebeter.
“At Hydro One, we know it’s imperative we invest in the local electricity system so power is there when it’s needed to support economic and community growth across the province,” Lebeter said. “Beck #2 TS is a critical station for Ontario’s electricity grid, and this work will strengthen the transmission system and continue to supply clean, safe, and resilient power for the Niagara region now and in the future.”
These generational energy upgrades come at a time when Statistics Canada has noted a nearly seven per cent increase in the number of residents in Niagara between 2016 and 2021. Moreover, as a result of the rapidly growing population, the expansion of economic activity, as well as the transition to renewable energy, the Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO) has predicted that the provincewide consumption of electricity will rise by 60 percent by 2050.
“The Niagara region plays a critical role in powering Ontario’s future by providing energy that supports both the local economy and the province’s electrification efforts,” Lecce said while reflecting on Niagara’s prestige as an energy supplier. “With the completion of the Beck #2 Transformer Station refurbishment, Niagara continues to be a driving force behind new growth, ensuring that families and businesses across Ontario benefit from clean, reliable and affordable energy for decades to come.”
Lecce’s sentiments were echoed by Oosterhoff, who expressed great enthusiasm for the economic future of Niagara.
“Niagara is experiencing incredible growth, with new investments in manufacturing, the energy economy, infrastructure and residential development,” Oosterhoff shared. “It’s an exciting time as both foreign and local entrepreneurs choose Niagara to build their future alongside our families and job creators. We must ensure our communities have energy that is reliable, affordable and accessible.”
“Hydro One’s work here is crucial in powering the future growth of Niagara and Ontario.”
In addition to the completion of this refurbishment project, the Ontario government announced earlier this year that it is dedicating an additional $1 billion to extend the life of the hydroelectric dams located at the Sir Adam Beck I and II generating stations. It is expected that this work will commence in 2025 and continue throughout the 2030s.
Nick Redekop completed his Honours Bachelor of Arts Degree in Labour Studies at Brock University. He has previously served in municipal and federal politics. In his free time, Nick enjoys following sports, taking part in outdoor activities, and reading biographies. Nick resides in Niagara Falls
