AltaLink is active in reducing its impact on the environment, and exercises this mandate in its oil recycling program. Oil is used as a coolant in electrical equipment, mainly transformers, and oil that was manufactured prior to 1980 could contain a chemical known as PCB. Polychlorinated biphenyls, commonly known as chlorobiphenyls or PCB, are harmful to the environment, most notably in aquatic ecosystems. Although oil containing PCB was never purchased for our equipment, some of our oil does contain the chemical.

AltaLink’s oil recycling program includes a rigorous de-chlorination process that removes any existing PCB. The oil is then refurbished and reused as the coolant in our equipment. AltaLink reuses 100% of its oil, creating no waste.

AltaLink has a comprehensive wood pole recycling program. We test our wood poles every five to seven years for wear, damage and rot. We retreat them if necessary to extend their use, and if the poles are no longer usable we recycle them.

All poles that cannot be reused within AltaLink’s existing facilities are either considered for reconditioning for reuse in a distribution or transmission system or for recycling via landowners or milling companies. 

Innovation: AltaLink is the first company in Alberta to use wood pole recycling.