The economic connection test is designed to assess whether ratepayer investment for the grid upgrades required to expand the system capacity is justifiable in light of:

• the best available information about confirmed transmission upgrades
• other proposed generating facilities
• distribution system expansion plans.

This test is proposed to run for each region of the province at least every six months.

The OPA will perform the test for transmission expansions and will consider:

• network reinforcements
• enabler facilities.

The OPA and local distribution companies will work together to integrate transmission and distribution system planning.

Possible results of the economic connection test are set out below.