Markham, ON – Alectra Utilities announces a significant investment of $13 million in grid enhancements aimed at bolstering reliability and meeting the growing energy demands in Markham, Ontario. As the community experiences increased population growth, Alectra is renewing infrastructure, enhancing connections, and modernizing substations to ensure a resilient energy grid for residential and commercial customers.
"The safety and reliability of electricity delivery to our customers remains our top priority," said Mike Matthews, Executive Vice President of Asset Strategy and Operations at Alectra. "Our commitment extends to investing in innovative technologies that not only mitigate power outages but also reduce environmental footprints, all while providing a cost-effective solution for our valued customers."
Alectra has set an exceptional reliability record, with customers experiencing approximately one outage per year on average and less than one hour without power annually. This places Alectra among the leaders in reliability among Ontario Local Distribution Companies (LDCs).
In 2024, Alectra plans to continue to invest in several capital renewal projects in Markham, including:
- $820,000 allocated to replace aging infrastructure such as poles, transformers, and substation switchgear. This modernization effort will minimize disruptions and enhance the reliability of Markham's energy grid.
- $5.3 million designated for the replacement and rehabilitation of underground cables using an innovative process called cable injection. This technology extends the lifespan of underground cables, reduces greenhouse gas emissions, and mitigates outages.
- $1.2 million earmarked for the replacement and upgrading of distribution substations within Markham.
- $240,000 dedicated to deploying new automated distribution system electric circuit switching devices, enabling swift response to grid disturbances and minimizing disruptions for the community.
- $5.4 million allocated to connect new customers, accommodating the growth and development in Markham.
Alectra has allocated approximately $297 million in 2024 for capital improvements across its 17 communities to renew aging equipment and install new infrastructure to handle growing demand. For further information on Alectra's grid enhancement projects and initiatives, please visit: https://alectrautilities.com/improving-reliability
About Alectra Utilities
Serving more than one million homes and businesses in Ontario’s Greater Golden Horseshoe area, Alectra Utilities is now the largest municipally-owned electric utility in Canada, based on the total number of customers served. We contribute to the economic growth and vibrancy of the 17 communities we serve by investing in essential energy infrastructure, delivering a safe and reliable supply of electricity, and providing innovative energy solutions. Our mission is to be an energy ally, helping our customers and the communities we serve to discover the possibilities of tomorrow’s energy future.
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Media Contact
Ashley Trgachef, Media Spokesperson ashley.trgachef@alectrautilities.com | Telephone: 416.402.5469 | 24/7 Media Line: 1-833-MEDIA-LN