February 6, 2024 – The Ontario 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).

“The refurbishment of Pickering would create thousands of new jobs and help produce at least another 30 years of safe, reliable, and clean electricity to power the next major international investment, the new homes we are building, and industries as they grow and electrify,” said Todd Smith, Minister of Energy.

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.

“This refurbishment will provide the [Greater Toronto Area] with approximately 2000 megawatts of much needed emission-free electricity for decades to come,” said Jeff Parnell, president, Power Workers’ Union. “It will also provide good jobs to thousands of skilled construction workers, engineers, maintenance trades, administrative and operations staff.”

Based on OPG’s preliminary schedule, and assuming regulatory approval by the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission, refurbishment of Pickering is anticipated to be completed by the mid-2030s.