Merchant transmission

In response to requests from industry, ESBI took the lead in efforts related to the development of new transmission capacity. This involves working with industry government, regulators and other stakeholders to help promote the development of the necessary transmission infrastructure. ESBI has initiated technical studies to assess the facilities required, both within Alberta and in adjacent jurisdictions, to facilitate significant exports from Alberta. We have also issued a Draft Merchant Policy Statement and filed a congestion management application, which is currently under review by the Alberta Energy and Utilities Board, which will establish the conditions under which new transmission infrastructure to facilitate exports will be built within Alberta, and how the costs will be allocated. ESBI has also been involved in various regional transmission initiatives, including RTO West and the Western Governors Association studies. There are two proposed merchant transmission projects under assessment in Alberta. One is a relatively small DC project to increase the transfer capability east through Saskatchewan. The other is a major long distance 2000 MW HVDC line from the Northeast area of Alberta-where significant potential for cogeneration development exists-into the Mid C market hub in Washington State.