Opposition to ATCO Electric’s New Transmission Line to Fort McMurray Continues

Residents who recently attended an open house at the Genesee Community Hall on the new Fort McMurray West 500 kV Transmission Project voiced their concerns about the negative impacts of the overhead line (Spruce Grove Examiner).

Concerns raised included the impact the new overhead line would have on the environment (including wildlife), livestock, and homes. Others raised concerns about the need for the line and the $1.4 billion cost of the line. Some residents wondered why such a long line was needed and suggested ways be found to shorten it.

ATCO Electric, which has teamed up with Quanta Services to form Alberta PowerLine (listed as an ATCO company), will be designing, building, owning and operating the new line that will run from the Wabamun area to Fort McMurray.

Residents who have attended other open houses conducted by ATCO or who have contacted RETA directly, have also expressed concerns about the recorded property devaluation, health impacts, blighted landscape, and negative effects on agricultural operations associated with overhead high voltage transmission lines.

See this link for more information on the new transmission line to Fort McMurray, already approved by the Alberta Government in 2009, and concerns residents have about the controlled public information sessions being held by ATCO.

~ by RETA on March 2, 2015.