Image by AndreasAux from Pixabay

A provincial utility is working to protect the natural environment in southwestern Ontario.

Hydro One has launched a biodiversity initiative as part of its Chatham to Lakeshore Transmission Line Project.

Indigenous communities, municipalities, community members, and environmental organizations are invited to submit proposals that create or enhance local habitat within the Sydenham River/St Clair River watershed and the Lower Thames River watershed.

“As we continue to support a clean energy future in the southwest and feed the growing energy demands of the agri-foods and manufacturing sectors, we must do so in a way that effectively manages the impacts of our business on our planet,” said Andrew Spencer, Hydro One Executive Vice President of Capital Portfolio Delivery in a news release. “Energizing life for customers and communities means more than supplying safe and reliable power, it means supporting important local initiatives to build a better and brighter future for all.”

“The Municipality of Chatham-Kent would like to applaud Hydro One’s stewardship efforts to support the sustainability of our local ecosystems,” added CK Mayor Darrin Canniff. “We’re looking forward to seeing and enjoying the environmental benefits from this fantastic enhancement work.”

To be eligible for funding, projects will be evaluated on the ecological or habitat value created, non-ecological factors, and cost.

Details about the Biodiversity Initiative, including timelines, eligibility requirements and how to make a submission can be found at hydroone.com/chatham-to-lakeshore.

The deadline to apply is December 15 with the successful submissions announced in early 2024.