Ontario Power Generation (OPG) announced it has completed its $2.6-billion Lower Mattagami Hydroelectric Project, the largest of its kind in 50 years.
Six new units and four generating stations on the Lower Mattagami River are now in service and producing 438 megawatts of power. OPG said that is ahead of the scheduled in-service date of June.
The stations are situated about 70 kilometres north of Kapuskasing.
It’s being heralded by OPG as a “one-of-a-kind success story” due to the partnership established with the Moose Cree First Nation, 25 per cent owners of the development, who benefitted from training and job opportunities.
OPG said $1 billion in contracts were awarded to Ontario companies, including $350 million to Northern Ontario companies.
Kiewit Alarie Partnership was the primary contractor, involving Peter Kiewit & Sons and Aecon’s Timmins subsidiary, Leo Alarie and Sons Construction.
“I’ve visited the Lower Mattagami and have a great appreciation of the size and scope of this project as well as the people who have brought this project in on time and on budget,” said provincial energy minister Bob Chiarelli.
Moose Cree Chief Norm Hardisty Jr. said the Lower Mattagami has rejuvenated the community and given its economy a “much-needed boost.”
“Many of our members will be able to use the training and new skills they developed to work on other infrastructure projects.”
