High power testing on Labrador Island Link scheduled for today and Thursday
On Wednesday, March 25 and Thursday, March 26, Hydro will be proceeding with the 900 MW tests on the Labrador Island Link previously scheduled for earlier this month.
Hydro is conducting this test during peak winter conditions in order to have the appropriate number of customers online to test up to its highest power levels, 900 MW. The purpose of this test is to ensure that all systems and equipment function as designed when the line is operating at full power. The test will be performed in a planned and controlled manner, providing assurance that we can operate reliably in an unplanned outage situation.
Hydro has successfully completed tests at 475 MW and 700 MW in the past. While every precaution is being taken to avoid an outage, there is always a possibility of customer impact when testing. If there is a power interruption, we are prepared and have supply available to restore customers quickly (typically under 30 minutes).
The Labrador Island Link transmission line has two poles (wires) carrying power to the island. During testing, one pole will be intentionally and suddenly shut down on each of these days. The expectation is that there will be a seamless transfer of power to the second pole, in accordance with the design. Following successful completion of the tests, the Labrador Island Link will be fully available to operate up to 900 MW. This will deliver many benefits including opportunities to reduce use of fossil fuel for electricity generation, improved reliability, and increased opportunity to sell power out of province at beneficial times to maximize value for customers.
While the Labrador Island Link is designed to be operated up to 900 MW, it is rarely required to operate at full capacity, even in winter. To date, the Labrador Island Link typically transfers up to its current operating limit of 700 MW. During the January 2026 ice event at Bay d’Espoir, there were instances where it operated up to 785 MW.
Scheduled 900 MW Tests:
March 25 – Pole One at approximately 9:30 a.m. (NDT)
March 26 – Pole Two at approximately 9:30 a.m. (NDT)