Northern Ontario Wires Inc. Breaks Ground on New Municipal Transformer Station in Cochrane
- NOW Inc.
- 1 day ago
- 2 min read
Cochrane, ON – (August 4, 2026) – Northern Ontario Wires Inc. (NOW Inc.) officially broke ground today on a major electrical infrastructure project that will strengthen Cochrane’s electricity network and support the community’s long-term growth.
A groundbreaking ceremony held August 4 marked the official start of construction on NOW Inc.’s new Municipal Transformer Station (MTS), located on Western Avenue on the south side of the railway tracks.
The new MTS will connect the high-voltage transmission system directly to Cochrane’s local municipal distribution grid. Once completed, the facility will double the community’s electrical capacity while replacing aging infrastructure, providing a stronger and
more reliable foundation for future residential, commercial and industrial development.
“This is about much more than replacing aging infrastructure,” said Marc Belanger, General Manager of Northern Ontario Wires Inc. “We are investing in Cochrane’s future. This new transformer station will provide the capacity and reliability we need to support growth, attract new investment and ensure that our electrical system is ready to meet the needs of the community for decades to come,” he added.
Mayor Peter Politis highlighted the importance of investing in infrastructure that supports the community’s long-term vision. “A strong community needs strong infrastructure. This project is an investment in Cochrane’s future and in our ability to grow. By increasing our electrical capacity and improving reliability, we are creating the foundation necessary to welcome new businesses, support existing industries and accommodate future development. This is exactly the kind of forward-looking investment that
positions Cochrane for the future,” the mayor said.
The new MTS will also play an important role in supporting Cochrane’s economic development objectives. Reliable and sufficient electrical capacity is essential when businesses and industries consider where to invest, expand or establish new operations.
Devon Prevost, Growth and Economic Development Manager, noted that infrastructure is a key component of creating an environment where investment and innovation can thrive and said “when we talk about economic growth, infrastructure is at the heart of it. Having reliable, modern electrical capacity gives us another important tool when we are promoting Cochrane as a place to invest and do business. This project strengthens our ability to accommodate growth today while preparing us for the industries, technologies and energy opportunities of tomorrow.”
Beyond addressing immediate infrastructure needs, the new MTS reflects a commitment to sustainability, reliability and long-term planning. As communities transition toward greater electrification and renewable and green energy technologies, modern electrical infrastructure will be increasingly important. The project will help ensure Cochrane is prepared to respond to changing energy needs while continuing to provide dependable service to residents and businesses.
With construction now underway and completion anticipated by the end of 2029, the new Municipal Transformer Station represents an important milestone in the continued modernization of Cochrane’s electrical infrastructure.
Northern Ontario Wires Inc. is committed to investing in a reliable, sustainable and future-ready electrical system that supports the community, encourages economic growth and helps position Cochrane for the opportunities ahead.
FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Email : customercare@nowinc.ca
Phone: 705-272-6669
