Plans for the Bruce C project in Ontario open for public comment

As Bruce Power continues predevelopment work, public input is being sought on the potential Bruce C nuclear power expansion project in Ontario.

Bruce Power recently submitted its initial project description to the Impact Assessment Agency of Canada for an expansion that would add up to 4,800 MWe. Earlier this year, the Canadian government announced up to C$50 million ($36.8 million) in funding for the Bruce C project, which would be Canada's first major expansion of a large nuclear plant in decades.

The company currently operates eight units at the site and is Canada's only private-sector nuclear generator, with a combined output of 6,507 MWe. Bruce Power is currently engaged in a major component replacement project to replace key components and extend the plant's operational life through 2064.

Quotable: "As we look to expand energy generation, our government remains committed to nuclear refurbishments, a clean energy source that well positions Ontario as a clean energy leader in the world," said Stephen Lecce, minister of energy and electrification. "Ontario is forecast to double its electricity grid by 2050. Bruce Power plays a vital role in expanding our electricity system so that we continue to deliver clean, reliable, and affordable energy to Ontario families."

The project: Bruce Power is using a technology-neutral approach to consider multiple technologies for the Bruce C expansion project.

The multiyear process of reviews and decisions will help Bruce Power fully engage indigenous peoples while simultaneously completing environmental and socioeconomic studies and permitting activities.

Carbon-free goals: Project 2030 is a Bruce Power initiative aimed at supporting Ontario's climate-change targets and future clean energy needs by targeting a site net peak capability of 7,000 MWe through improvements to existing assets by the early 2030s.

Nuclear power currently accounts for about 15 percent of Canada's electricity. Bruce C would account for more than 25 percent of the new nuclear capacity needed to meet Ontario's long-term clean energy needs, as recommended by Ontario's Independent Electricity System Operator's Pathway to Decarbonization report.

Speak up: Public comment and information sessions will be held in the coming months. The first comment period is underway and ends on September 12. More information can be found in this public notice.