Canadian Electricity Association Designates AltaLink as Sustainable Electricity Company


OTTAWA, ONTARIO--(Marketwired - Jan. 10, 2014) -

Editors Note: There is a photo associated with this press release.

The Canadian Electricity Association (CEA) announced today that AltaLink, an electricity transmission company based in Calgary, Alberta, has been designated as a Sustainable Electricity Company™. With this designation, AltaLink becomes the first-ever transmission company and second major electricity company in Canada to receive this designation.

The Sustainable Electricity Company™ designation was established by the Canadian Electricity Association for utilities across Canada. The designation requires utilities to commit to ISO 14001 standards on Environmental Management Systems and ISO 26000 guidance on Social Responsibility. In addition, companies must also pass a third-party external verification to ensure adherence of brand criteria.

"This is another significant milestone in making the electricity sector more environmentally, socially, and economically responsible in its activities," said Jim Burpee, President and CEO of the Canadian Electricity Association. "I congratulate AltaLink for meeting the brand designation requirements based on internationally recognized standards."

"The Sustainable Electricity Company designation is a reflection of our commitment to meeting the needs of our stakeholders, communities and employees through sustainable business practices," said Dennis Frehlich, Interim President and CEO of AltaLink. "We're honoured and proud to receive this designation from CEA," added Mr. Frehlich.

CEA encourages all utilities to adopt, use and adhere to the new Sustainable Electricity Company™ brand criteria as a tangible and visible demonstration of their commitment to sustainability.

"As we continue to build and renew our electricity infrastructure, socially responsible delivery of this essential service is critical," said David Morrison, President and CEO of Yukon Energy Corporation and Executive Chair of the CEA Sustainability Committee. "I applaud AltaLink's commitment to sustainability and look forward to seeing more companies achieving this designation in the future."

For more information about the Sustainable Electricity Company™ designation, please visit: www.SustainableElectricityCompany.ca.

About CEA

Canadian Electricity Association (CEA) members generate, transmit and distribute electrical energy to industrial, commercial, residential and institutional customers across Canada every day. From vertically integrated electric utilities, independent power producers, transmission and distribution companies, to power marketers, to the manufacturers and suppliers of materials, technology and services that keep the industry running smoothly -- all are represented by this national industry association.

About AltaLink

AltaLink's transmission system efficiently delivers electricity to 85% of Albertans. Dedicated to meeting the growing need for electricity, AltaLink connects Albertans to renewable, reliable and low-cost power. With a commitment to community and environment, AltaLink is ensuring the transmission system will support Albertans' quality of life for years to come. Learn more at www.altalink.ca.

To view the photo associated with this press release, please visit the following link: http://www.marketwire.com/library/20140110-ALTAimageLG.jpg.

Contact Information:

Canadian Electricity Association
Samara Wiseman
Senior Advisor, Public Affairs
613 688 2954 or Cell: 613 355 4022
wiseman@electricity.ca

AltaLink
Scott Schreiner
Director, External Engagement
403 267 2176 or Cell: 403 880 0275
scott.schreiner@altalink.ca
www.altalink.ca

From left to right: President and CEO of the Canadian Electricity Association Jim Burpee, President and CEO of AltaLink Dennis Frehlich, Director of Sustainable Development at the Canadian Electricity Association Channa Perera.