AltaLink wants to relocate power lines for EID project

SANDRA M STANWAYBrooks Bulletin AltaLink has applied to the Alberta Utilities Commission (AUC) for approval to modify, relocate and salvage a portion of its existing ... Read more

SANDRA M STANWAY Brooks Bulletin AltaLink has applied to the Alberta Utilities Commission (AUC) for approval to modify, relocate and salvage a portion of its existing 138 kilovolt transmission line to accommodate the expansion at Snake Lake Reservoir southeast of Bassano and south of Highway 1. AltaLink proposes to relocate a 3.4 kilometre section of the line and rebuild it along a 9.5 km route within the road allowances to avoid a conflict with the reservoir footprint. The old section will be removed.

Existing 17 and 21 metre tall structures will be replaced with similar taller wood or steel structures between 20 and 23 m. Other self-supporting structures may also be required. The project will use a 10m right-of-way. Construction is expected to start this fall and finish in the spring.

Nest sweeps will be conducted for all project activities in sensitive habitat between April 15 and Aug. 25 and bird flight markers will be installed in overhead shield wire around the reservoir to reduce bird collision risk. If you believe you are affected by the application a request can be made to participate and provide input to the AUC by Aug. 7, 2026. The expansion itself continues to be reviewed by Environment and Protected Areas and the Natural Resources Conservation Board.

Once the reviews are completed and any deficiencies addressed by the Eastern Irrigation District, a public review will follow.