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Connection of Generation Facilities

Ontario depends on a safe, reliable and competitively priced supply of electricity for its economic growth and quality of life. Hydro One connects new generation in Ontario by consulting early and often with potential generators and providing timely and cost-effective connections.

Building generating facilities and connecting them to the system demands attention to safety, rigid technical standards and regulatory requirements. Several crown corporations or government agencies work with generators in approving projects and in connecting generation facilities.

Connecting to Hydro One's Distribution or Transmission systems involves several steps and both the generator and Hydro One have distinct responsibilities.

Hydro One is responsible for:

• Safety, reliability, and efficiency of the Hydro One system, and ensuring the new generation connection does not adversely affect the system or our existing customers
• Maintaining the integrity of the Hydro One system and ensuring that regulatory codes are followed (Transmission System Code/Distribution System Code) and all applicable standards are followed

Generators are responsible for the safety, design, construction, operation, metering, protection and control, and maintenance of the generating facility. They are also responsible for all costs associated with connecting a generating facility to Hydro One's system.

Generators are responsible for:

• Contacting the various agencies involved well before finalizing plans
• Ensuring all necessary submissions and agreements are completed and required payments made
• Considering using a consultant to assist with the connection requirements, process, and approvals

Still have questions?
If you are interested in connecting a generation facility to Hydro One's system, please e-mail gen.connect@hydroone.com or call 1-866-280-7712.

If you are planning to install a generator that employs a renewable technology and is less than 500 kW, please consider our Net Metering program. All residential and solar panel installations would benefit from this program, as would small wind turbines. Please visit our Net Metering section or call 1-866-280-7712 for more information.