Hydro One has announced it is performing work to enhance local transmission infrastructure in Caledonia and the surrounding area to improve power resiliency and reliability for years to come.
The company will replace equipment at its Caledonia Transmission Station, including voltage transformers and switches, with an expected power outage in June that residents are being warned to plan for.
Most of Hydro One’s electricity system was built in the 1950s and 1960s which Hydro One says means it is time to invest in renewing or replacing critical infrastructure in almost every community across the province.
“Hydro One is investing in our electricity infrastructure to ensure the region has clean and reliable energy today and for years to come,” said Andrew Spencer, Executive Vice President, Capital Portfolio Delivery, Hydro One. “Homes and businesses throughout the region rely on us to deliver the power that energizes their lives and communities. We understand how difficult it is to be without power and thank our customers for their patience as we complete this critical work.”
The project will start in early May and is expected to be completed by the end of June. During this time the community can expect to see approximately 15 Hydro One employees working within the station along with large equipment such as a crane and bucket trucks.
In order to complete the work, a power outage is required so crews can safely complete a portion of the work, Hydro One said in a press release.
The outage will happen on June 3, from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. and will affect about 8,100 Hydro One customers in Caledonia and the surrounding area.
The company says it has worked with Six Nations of the Grand River Elected Council in planning this work to minimize the duration of the outage and schedule it during a time when customers are using the least amount of power.
“Six Nations of the Grand River Elected Council is working closely with Hydro One to keep our community safe during this power outage. We are ensuring there are supports, a safe place and opportunities to learn more about what you can do to stay safe in an extended power outage. We will continue to update our community members as our plans are finalized,” said Elected Chief Mark B. Hill.
The company is sharing tips to help customers prepare for the upcoming outage which includes:
-Making sure appliances, such as the stove, are in the off position.
-Making sure cellphones and devices are fully charged.
-Using a battery-powered alarm clock or cellphone to ensure Sunday morning alarms aren’t missed.
-Keeping refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible and using a cooler with ice for items needed during the planned outage.
-If water services will be affected at your home, consider filling jugs of water to use for drinking and cooking.
-If using a generator, remember to use it in a dry area outdoors away from any open windows, doors and vents. Visit the Electrical Safety Authority at esasafe.com for more tips.
Customers affected by the planned outage will be notified several weeks in advance via an auto-dialer message. Customer can also visit Hydro One’s outage map or call 1-888-664-9376 for more information.