Pickering Nuclear Life Extension: AtkinsRéalis and Aecon Group secure C$2.1bn contract

Candu Energy Inc., a subsidiary of AtkinsRéalis Group Inc., has joined forces with Aecon Group Inc. to spearhead a significant nuclear refurbishment project for Ontario Power Generation (OPG). This C$2.1 billion contract marks a major step in Ontario’s strategic efforts to meet growing electricity demands while embracing sustainable, low-carbon energy solutions.

The joint venture focuses on extending the operational lifespan of the Pickering Nuclear Generating Station, a critical component of Ontario’s energy grid, to ensure the continued supply of affordable, clean power for decades.

How Will the Pickering Nuclear Life Extension Shape Ontario’s Energy Future?

Ontario is preparing for a projected 75% surge in electricity demand by 2050, driven by population growth and industrial expansion. The Pickering Nuclear Generating Station, located just 45 kilometers east of Toronto, has been a cornerstone of the province’s clean energy strategy for over 50 years.

The life-extension project will allow four of the station’s CANDU reactors to operate until the mid-2060s, safeguarding Ontario’s ability to maintain reliable baseload power. The refurbishment will involve replacing critical components such as reactor feeders, boilers, and retubing, ensuring optimal performance and safety standards.

What Makes CANDU Technology Vital for Ontario’s Energy Security?

CANDU technology, developed in Canada, is celebrated for its cost-effectiveness, reliability, and environmental benefits. Unlike traditional reactors, CANDU reactors use natural uranium as a fuel source and can be refueled during operation. This innovative approach reduces downtime and maximizes energy output.

According to Ian L. Edwards, President and CEO of AtkinsRéalis:

“CANDU reactors are a low-cost, world-class technology with a proven track record in Canada and abroad. We are proud to lead this project to ensure Pickering continues to provide clean, affordable, and reliable energy for decades to come.”

Beyond energy production, Pickering’s reactors also support global healthcare initiatives by producing Cobalt-60, a cancer-fighting medical isotope. The facility accounts for 20% of the world’s supply of this vital resource, making it indispensable not just to Ontario but to the broader international community.

What Are the Economic and Environmental Benefits of the Refurbishment?

The Pickering life-extension project brings both economic and environmental benefits. It secures 4,500 high-paying jobs at the facility and is expected to create additional employment opportunities in engineering, skilled trades, and manufacturing.

The refurbishment will also ensure that Ontario continues to benefit from low-carbon energy, helping to reduce greenhouse gas emissions significantly. The station currently avoids the equivalent of 643,000 gas-powered cars’ worth of carbon emissions annually, reinforcing its role as a key player in Canada’s broader climate goals.

Nicolle Butcher, OPG’s President and CEO, highlighted the importance of collaboration in ensuring project success:

“Drawing on our shared experience with the Darlington Refurbishment Project, working with trusted partners like AtkinsRéalis and Aecon positions us for similar excellence as we extend the life of Pickering’s reactors.”

How Does the Pickering Project Fit into Ontario’s Broader Nuclear Strategy?

The life-extension of Pickering is part of a larger initiative that includes:

• The refurbishment of 19 CANDU reactors across Ontario over the next decade.
• The construction of four small modular reactors (SMRs) at Darlington, which are expected to set new benchmarks in nuclear efficiency.
• Explorations for new nuclear sites in southern Ontario to support additional clean energy production.

These projects collectively aim to ensure that nuclear power remains at the heart of Ontario’s energy mix, providing a stable and weather-independent power source amid the shift away from fossil fuels.

Why Is This Project a Milestone for Canada’s Nuclear Industry?

The extension of Pickering’s operations until 2026, approved by the Canadian government in October 2024, underscores the significance of nuclear power in securing Ontario’s energy future. The 3.1 GW facility, one of the largest nuclear plants globally, currently generates 11% of Ontario’s electricity, enough to power 1.5 million homes annually.

Joe St. Julian, President of Nuclear at AtkinsRéalis, emphasized the project’s national significance:

“CANDU technology is not only a source of national pride but also a critical component of our energy security. Projects like Pickering ensure that we meet rising electricity demands while maintaining our leadership in nuclear innovation.”

A Blueprint for Sustainable Energy Growth

The Pickering Nuclear Generating Station life-extension project reflects Ontario’s commitment to balancing economic growth with environmental stewardship. By investing in cutting-edge CANDU technology and fostering collaboration between industry leaders such as AtkinsRéalis and Aecon, the province is laying a foundation for decades of clean, reliable, and affordable energy.

As global energy demands rise, projects like Pickering serve as a blueprint for how nuclear power can play a pivotal role in achieving sustainability goals while driving economic development.