Ontario Government Increasing Clean, Renewable Power

Construction on the Niagara Tunnel Project in Ontario, Canada has reached a significant milestone with half of the tunnel now fully lined with concrete.

When it is finished, the smooth concrete lining will ensure the efficient and uninterrupted flow of Niagara River water through this 10.2 km tunnel to the Sir Adam Beck generating stations for the next 100 years.

Digging the tunnel using the largest hard-rock boring machine in the world, dubbed "Big Becky," was completed last spring.

When complete in 2013, the Niagara Tunnel -- one of the largest renewable energy projects of its kind -- will supply enough clean, renewable electricity to power 160,000 homes.

The project currently employs more than 400 people and has brought about $1 billion in economic benefits to the region.

Strengthening Ontario's hydroelectric infrastructure is an important part of the Ontario Government's plan to build a modern, clean, reliable electricity system to power homes, schools, hospitals and the economy.

QUOTES:
"The Niagara Tunnel Project is an example of how the province is transforming Ontario's electricity system and investing in the clean energy economy. We are ensuring a clean, modern, reliable and affordable energy system that will power us today, and for generations to come."
– Chris Bentley
Minister of Energy

"The Niagara tunnel is an investment in our future that will provide Ontario with clean, renewable energy for more than 100 years. What's equally impressive is that the men and women who are building this project have worked safely under extremely difficult and challenging conditions. That's a testimony to the quality and skill of Ontario's workforce."
– Tom Mitchell
President of Ontario Power Generation

QUICK FACTS:
• Since 2003, more than 100 megawatts of new and refurbished waterpower projects have come online in Ontario - enough power for about 50,000 homes.
• The Niagara Tunnel is as high as a four-storey building, and will propel water at a rate of 500 cubic metres per second, fast enough to fill an Olympic-sized swimming pool in a matter of seconds.
• More hydroelectric power will be added to Ontario's electricity system in the next eight years than over the previous 40 years.

LEARN MORE
• Find out about hydro generation in Ontario
• Read Ontario's Long-Term Energy Plan

For more information, contact:
Dishni Jayasuriya
Media Profile
Tel: 416-342-1827
E-mail: dishni.jayasuriya@mediaprofile.com