In The News

A Hydro One transmission project, believed to be tied to a future data centre in Markham, has been put on pause, but for residents living along the planned route, the fight is far from over.

In late 2023, Hydro One initiated a Class Environmental Assessment (Class EA) under the Class EA for Minor Transmission Facilities (2022) to support a proposed data storage facility in the City of Markham. While Hydro One has not publicly identified the customer, residents widely believe the project is intended to serve Microsoft, though the company has not confirmed its involvement.

The proposed project includes building a new 230 kilovolt (kV) transformer station, installing two new junction stations (JCTs) in the Hydro One transmission corridor east of Leslie Street, and constructing a new 230 kV transmission line, partly overhead and partly underground.

Nearby residents raised alarms over plans to place overhead lines and above-ground junction stations as close as 20 metres from their backyard fences. They argue the proximity would negatively affect health, safety, property values, and overall quality of life.