Kakulu system expansion project
July 2026 - December 2026
Demand for electricity in Ottawa continues to grow and energy needs in the community are increasing.The Kakulu system expansion project is a multi-month initiative being completed as an essential requirement to upgrade the distribution system in Kanata South. We’re replacing aging equipment and converting parts of our electricity infrastructure to ensure power is available in the community for customers now and in the future.
This initiative is more than a single project; we’re prioritizing essential upgrades such as this one across our service territory as a core component of Hydro Ottawa's commitment to modernizing our entire electricity grid. These proactive, sustained investments ensure we can provide a reliable and sustainable electricity supply for all our customers.
Why this project is important
The Kakulu system expansion project is important to ensure we can continue to meet the capacity and reliability needs of the community by upgrading the power distribution infrastructure. The project also focuses on mitigating equipment failure while creating redundancies, promoting a more consistent power supply.
What this project will include
As part of the Kakulu system expansion project, the following work will be completed:
- Kakulu Drive: Installation of 730 metres of concrete-protected underground ducting, eight manholes, and three reinforced road crossings.
- Castlefrank Drive: Installation of 85 metres of concrete-protected underground ducting, one manhole, and one reinforced road crossing.
- Castlefrank Road at Kakulu Road: Installation of 3,350 metres of high-voltage (28kV) power cabling and new switchgear equipment. This advanced equipment will allow us to reroute power faster during outages.
The goal: Once completed, these upgrades will modernize the local power grid and improve service reliability for the neighbourhood.
How Hydro Ottawa customers will benefit from this project
This isn’t just about replacing old wires, it's about future-proofing your neighbourhood. By increasing the overall electrical capacity, we are creating a more reliable power supply to match the growing needs of the community. This upgrade is essential to maintain the stability and effectiveness of the distribution system, leading to less disruptions and unplanned power outages in the future. Additionally, the project replaces aging Hydro Ottawa infrastructure and equipment that have reached the end of their lifespan, safeguarding the safety and efficiency of the electrical grid.
This project is one of many future-planning projects we are spearheading to make our electricity system as resilient as possible.
Contact
If you have questions about the project please email our Community Relations team at [email protected].
