Project Overview
ENMAX Power Corporation (ENMAX Power) is replacing the existing ENMAX Substation No. 1, located at 738 9 Avenue SW. Originally built in 1912 to power streetlights and the streetcar rail system in downtown Calgary, today Substation No.1 supplies power to almost half of Calgary’s downtown area. The new substation is required to ensure the reliability and integrity of ENMAX’s transmission system, and to ensure the safe, reliable supply of electricity to the City of Calgary.
The new ENMAX Substation No. 1 will be built on a site directly west of the existing substation, on the northwest corner, at the 9 Avenue SW and 7 Street SW. In addition to constructing the new substation, ENMAX Power will need to excavate sections of 9 Avenue SW, 7 Street SW, and 8 Street SW to relocate, install and replace transmission lines, duct banks and manholes.
Project Timeline
- Project initiation – early 2018
- AUC application – December 2019
- AUC approval – January 2021
- Design and procurement phase – 2020 - 2023
- Construction start – Fall 2022
- Building exterior complete – Q3 2023
- Underground utility work starts – Q1 2023
- Construction complete and new substation in service – Q1 2025
- Old substation decommissioned – Q2 2025
Communication efforts are ongoing and will continue through all phases of the project, to ensure timely updates are provided to those impacted. Project timelines are subject to change due to factors such as weather, supply chain and project complexity.
What to expect during construction
During construction of this project that includes building construction, excavation and underground utility work, you can typically expect to see:
- Lane closures
- Sidewalk closures
- Noise
- Debris
- Vibration
- Heavy machinery
- ENMAX, Graham Construction and contractor personnel and vehicles
ENMAX and our contractor Graham Construction will be regularly maintaining the site to mitigate impacts like dirt and debris. Lane and sidewalk closures will be required in the project area, including on 9 Avenue SW., 7 Street SW and 8 Street SW. ENMAX will work with The City of Calgary to mitigate impacts of these closures on Calgarians. Lane closures requiring an extended duration are not anticipated to begin until 2023.
Important Documents