Outages

If you are experiencing a power outage in one of the First Nations connected to the provincial grid via the Wataynikaneyap system, call Hydro One Remote Communities at 1-888-825-8707. They are prepared to respond 24/7 to outages and other issues.

ᐁᑲᐧ ᐱᒧᒋᑫᐃᐧᓇᐣ

Wataynikaneyap Power PM Inc. (WPPM), supported by Opiikapawiin Services (OSLP), is a dedicated team of professionals based out of the Wataynikaneyap Power office on Fort William First Nation. Wataynikaneyap Power is responsible for moving high voltage electricity from generating stations to local distribution systems.

The team operates and maintains the power transmission system to bring cleaner, more reliable power to remote First Nations in northwestern Ontario. Wataynikaneyap Power, through WPPM, oversees service contracts with third parties for some activities, but Wataynikaneyap Power is ultimately responsible for the safe, reliable operation of the power transmission system.

Notices of Work in your Area

Wataynikaneyap Power provides First Nation leadership with an advanced and reminder notices by email with what work will be done in your area. Details include travel information, how many crew members will be there, and if work will be done on the ground or by helicopter/plane.

Wataynikaneyap Power works with OSLP on behalf of all Participating First Nations to identify important cultural/traditional activities and dates that should be avoided for planned inspection and maintenance activities. However, during an emergency there may not be notices. Alternate communication will be established with each First Nation.

Operational Programs

IMER

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First Nation Participation

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Bamijikewin

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Environmental Monitoring

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There are many further areas that support the operation of a transmission system, for example: health and safety, finance, procurement, administration, regulatory affairs, workforce development, human resources, IT, communications, policy development, capital planning, land access, and real-time operations. Hydro One Networks Inc. currently performs the control room function of the Wataynikaneyap Power transmission system.

Risk Management

The Wataynikaneyap Power transmission system was designed with strong safety features to protect critical assets and reduce outage risks. Its vast and remote footprint requires more extensive planning, monitoring, and preventative maintenance than typical transmission systems.

Access for inspections, repairs, and emergency response often requires helicopters and offroad vehicles. Natural risks such as lightning, extreme cold weather, high winds, wildfires, and dense brush in the Right of Way (bamijikewin) are also more challenging to manage in a remote, large geographical area.
Inspection, maintenance, and emergency preparedness activities are critical given the system’s remoteness, radial configuration, and the broad geographic area and the First Nations it serves—factors that make Wataynikaneyap Power a uniquely-operated transmitter in Ontario.

Access to land requires appropriate engagement and communication with Land Keepers and the communities. Part of risk management is providing proper notifications to the Land Keepers and community members in order to access the Homelands.