Nuclear Power: Why Ontario? And Why Now?

You might not have known, but nuclear power has played a large role in energy production in Ontario for the last 60 years. In fact, in Ontario, nuclear energy is responsible for about 54 percent of the energy produced and the Bruce Nuclear Power Plant in Southern Ontario is the largest nuclear generating station in the world.  

Last year, the provincial government announced that it would like to double production from the Bruce power plant, add new Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) to the Darlington nuclear power plant, and refurbish the Pickering power plant. 

That is a lot of new investment, which is important to the growth of our communities and economy. 

 Why this influx of investment in nuclear energy? 

Electricity demands in Canada are set to double in the next 25 years and nuclear power is a clear path towards clean energy production in Canada. Nuclear power generation is carbon-free and doesn’t release greenhouse gas emissions. 

“Governments all over the world are having serious conversations about what it means to fight climate change, build up our energy security, increase exports and support good-paying, unionized jobs,” said Laurie Swami, President and CEO of Nuclear Waste Management Organization. 

According to the Canadian Nuclear Association in Canada nuclear energy reduces CO2 emissions by 80 million tonnes per year. This is the same as pulling 15 million cars off the road. 

It is also the only form of clean energy reliable enough to consistently meet power demands through all four seasons. 

 Why should Ontario to be at the forefront of nuclear development? 

While the Government of Canada’s recent investment in Ontario’s development of nuclear energy may is an important step, Ontario’s nuclear industry has been world-leading for decades.  

Ontario was an early adopter of nuclear energy with the first reactor being built in 1961 and nuclear energy has been part of the Ontario energy supply mix for over sixty years. 

Now it is more important than ever to lean into Ontario’s long successful history with nuclear, and the resources available to excel in safe nuclear energy production and nuclear waste management. 

Ontario has an amazing engineering talent pool, strong academic research programs, as well as a desire to reduce carbon emissions, and boost the Canadian economy and job market. 

Leveraging its engineering talent and academic strength, Ontario is well-positioned to continue to innovate nuclear technology, developing advanced reactors and improving safety measures. This combination of expertise and research capability can lead to breakthroughs in nuclear energy that not only benefit the province but also set global standards.  

In addition to technological advancements, being at the forefront of nuclear innovation aligns with Ontario’s environmental and economic goals. Reducing carbon emissions is critical in the fight against climate change, and nuclear power provides a reliable, low-carbon energy source that can significantly cut greenhouse gas emissions.  

Furthermore, investing in nuclear innovation stimulates economic growth and job creation, supporting high-skilled employment and generating economic benefits across the province.