In an effort to educate and provide unbiased information to all Albertans, the Alberta Electric System Operator (AESO) wishes to address inaccurate information printed in the Red Deer Advocate on February 28, 2011.
Contrary to what the article suggests upgrades to the system are needed to preserve the overall reliability of the system, meet growing demand and replace aging and retiring generation units. Alberta’s growth is forecast to continue at a rate of more than three per cent annually over the next two decades. The AESO plans transmission in advance of need, and the need has never been more immediate.
Another inaccuracy in the article pertains to the regulatory approval processes. In 2009, four projects were identified as Critical Transmission Infrastructure (CTI), and were legislated to proceed under the Electric Utilities Act. The Alberta Utilities Commission (AUC) continues to be responsible for the approval of the siting, routing and final costs for these projects. In addition, there are currently about 250 projects underway, all of which will proceed through the AUC Facilities Application process.
Many of the comments regarding generation are incorrect, and confuse an already complex issue. We are mandated to ensure all generators have access to the grid. However, in Alberta decisions about the timing and location of generation are made by investors. Today, many reliable sources of generation are constrained in the province because of a lack of transmission infrastructure. Without transmission lines to move power across the province, consumers are left to rely on a single source of generation and are at risk of being held captive – in terms of prices and supply – to one provider.
Alberta’s quality of life and economic well being, especially the maintenance and creation of jobs, depends on an adequate and reliable supply of electricity to all Albertans, now and well into the future.
The AESO encourages you to visit our website, www.poweringalberta.com to learn more.
Yours truly,
Greg Retzer
Director, Project Delivery North Transmission
Alberta Electric System Operator