Q: How much compensation will I be offered?
A: For new transmission lines, ATCO Electric negotiates compensation settlements that are fair and reasonable to landowners and in accordance with surface rights legislation. The amount of compensation depends on how, and to what extent, the transmission line will affect you and your property. A number of factors are considered, and not all may apply to your case. Compensation is paid for each of the following, if required:
- an early access and resolution agreement of $10,000 per parcel for early access to a landowner's property and early agreement to its right-of-way terms;
- an entry fee payment (required under surface rights legislation) based on $500 per acre of land required. For each parcel of land, the minimum payment is $250 and the maximum is $5000;
- an easement or agreement for the transmission line right-of-way, based on the amount of land within the
right-of-way and the fair market value of the land (or a portion of the value if the rights are only temporary);
- a temporary working-space agreement allowing for additional area outside the right-of-way of the transmission line during the construction period.
In addition, there may be payment for general disturbance such as costs for time, and other inconveniences related to the installation of the power line.
For more information on compensation see Facts About Compensation for the Eastern Alberta DC Transmission Line.
Q: When do I get my compensation?
A: When possible, ATCO Electric will pay initial compensation before construction begins.
Where the transmission structures are to be located on agricultural land, the negotiated settlements will also include annual compensation payments for inconvenience and crop loss. These annual payments can be reviewed with the company at five-year intervals, at which time they may be adjusted to reflect changes in farming costs and crop prices. Our land agent will explain these procedures in more detail.
Q: Does the compensation payment include reimbursement for construction damage?
A: Claims for damage arising from construction activities are usually settled separately from the main compensation agreement after construction is completed.
Q: What can I do if I am not satisfied with the company’s final offer?
A: If you are not happy with the company’s offer or settlement of damage claims, you are entitled to ask that the amount of compensation be determined by the Surface Rights Board.
Further information can be found on their website at: www.surfacerights.gov.ab.ca or by calling: 780-427-2444.