Ontario Supports Continued Safe Operation of Pickering Nuclear Generating Station
October 16, 2024
Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission approves continued safe operation of the station
Stephen Lecce, Ontario’s Minister of Energy and Electrification, issued the following statement in response to the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission’s approval for the continued safe operation of the Pickering Nuclear Generating Station’s “B” units through December 2026.
“The data is clear, Ontario needs more power to meet growing energy demands. We have long believed that the Pickering Nuclear Generating Station is essential to Ontario’s energy expansion plan, which is why we welcome the approval to extend the operation of one of the country’s best run generating stations and a critical source of affordable and non-emitting power for two million homes.
This approval is a powerful endorsement of the skill and dedication of the 4,500 workers at this station and its proven track-record of producing reliable and affordable electricity.
The continued operation of the Pickering Nuclear Generating Station will allow for the safe production of reliable, affordable and clean power we need, as well as life-saving medical isotopes to combat cancer. Our government will continue to advance Ontario’s nuclear advantage as we keep costs down for families across Ontario.”
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Ontario Supporting Plan to Refurbish Pickering Nuclear Generating Station
The government is supporting Ontario Power Generation’s (OPG) plan to proceed with the next steps toward refurbishing Pickering Nuclear Generating Station’s “B” units (units 5-8). Once refurbished, Pickering would produce a total of 2,000 megawatts (MW) of electricity, equivalent to powering two million homes, helping to meet increasing demand from electrification and fuelling the province’s economic growth.
OPG will now proceed with the Project Initiation Phase of refurbishment which will last through the end of 2024. The government is supporting OPG’s $2 billion budget for this phase which includes engineering and design work as well as securing long-lead components that can require years for manufacturing. By placing orders in advance with key suppliers, OPG will ensure materials are available when the province needs them and help keep costs down. OPG and its business partners will also identify potential Indigenous engagement opportunities in contracting, employment and other economic benefits related to the project.
