Ontario Greenlights $2.1 Billion Contract for Pickering Nuclear Refurbishment
MISSISSAUGA – The Ontario government has approved Ontario Power Generation’s (OPG) plan to proceed with the next phase of refurbishing the Pickering Nuclear Generating Station’s “B” units, a project that will boost the province’s energy capacity, create thousands of jobs, and secure reliable power for decades to come.
The government has authorized OPG to sign a $2.1 billion contract with CanAtom, a joint venture between Aecon and AtkinsRéalis, for early engineering and procurement as part of the Retube Feeder and Boiler Replacement Program. The program is set to generate more than 2,400 jobs across Ontario.
“The Pickering Nuclear Generating Station has powered cities and towns across Ontario with affordable, reliable and zero-emissions electricity for more than fifty years,” said Stephen Lecce, Minister of Energy and Electrification. “Under the leadership of Premier Ford, our government is focused on delivering affordable energy, while we stand firm against the federal carbon tax.”
More #AffordableEnergy announced by @sflecce as Ontario takes the next big step in refurbishing Pickering’s Nuclear Generating Station — enough power for 2 million homes.
This plan alone will create 11,000 good-paying jobs.
Premier @fordnation is focused on the economy, while… pic.twitter.com/tkDbSYaOSn
— Laura Smith (@laurasthornhill) January 23, 2025
Economic and Energy Impact
Once refurbished, the Pickering station will produce over 2,000 megawatts of electricity, enough to power two million homes. OPG’s timeline projects completion by the mid-2030s, addressing the province’s increasing energy needs driven by economic growth and electrification.
According to the Conference Board of Canada, the refurbishment is expected to generate 11,000 jobs annually and contribute $19.4 billion to Ontario’s GDP over 11 years, with 90% of the project’s spending staying within the province.
Indigenous and Local Partnerships
OPG has committed $100 million in spending with Indigenous companies throughout the project, ensuring local First Nations benefit from economic opportunities tied to the refurbishment.
Nicolle Butcher, OPG President and CEO, highlighted the importance of collaboration, saying, Drawing on the shared experience from the Darlington Refurbishment Project, we are set for success as we prepare to refurbish Units 5-8 at Pickering. This investment ensures Pickering will continue powering Ontario for decades.
A Broader Energy Vision
The refurbishment aligns with the government’s broader Affordable Energy Future plan, which includes developing the province’s first integrated energy strategy, advancing nuclear energy, expanding transmission infrastructure, and launching $10.9 billion in energy efficiency programs.
This project follows the success of the Darlington Refurbishment Project, which remains on-budget and ahead of schedule. OPG will continue its meticulous planning through the Project Definition Phase, lasting until 2026, to ensure the Pickering refurbishment meets similar standards of efficiency and cost management.
With Ontario’s energy needs on the rise, the Pickering Nuclear Generating Station’s refurbishment represents a cornerstone in the province’s long-term energy strategy.
