| The Alberta Electric System Operator is proposing to construct at least one, and perhaps two, 500 kilovolt transmission lines from Edmonton to Calgary over the next few years. While there is no doubt the province needs additional infrastructure to meet its growing demand for electricity, large transmission lines may not be the best choice. Alberta consumers deserve a comprehensive public evaluation of all viable options to meet their need for reliable power, including new transmission lines, generation located next to major loads, and voluntary load curtailment (also known as “demand response”). The benefits of evolving technologies such as micro-generation and advanced metering must also be considered. If it turns out, based on a comprehensive evaluation, that large transmission lines are the best option, they should be built. On the other hand, if other technically, environmentally, and socially acceptable alternatives can be developed at a lower cost, Alberta’s Transmission Regulation should support those alternatives over transmission. |