Home > Customers > Generators > Generation Connections

» Distribution-connected   » Transmission-connected   » Frequently Asked Questions

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.

Hydro One connects generating facilities to the transmission and distribution network, delivering the electricity they produce at hydroelectric, coal, natural gas, wind and nuclear facilities to businesses and people across Ontario. We work with our customers to plan for the future and make sure facilities are in place to deliver electricity where it needs to be. Read our Frequently Asked Questions about generation connections.

Hydro One is committed to working with prospective generators on the provincial government's Request for Proposal (RFP) for renewable generation. Find out more.

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.

Transmission or Distribution?

Deciding whether your project is connected through our transmission or distribution system depends on a number of factors, such as the type and availability of nearby facilities. Generally, the higher the voltage of the system, the more generation capacity that can be connected to it.

Distribution-connected generators connect to the power system at less than 50,000 volts.

Transmission-connected generators connect to the power system at more than 50,000 volts and are registered with the Independent Electricity System Operator.