Ontario Construction News staff writer
The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) has authorized Ontario Power Generation (OPG) to construct and operate the Pickering Component Storage Structure at the Pickering Waste Management Facility (PWMF), the regulator announced this week.
The new structure will store low- and intermediate-level nuclear waste from potential future refurbishment of Pickering Nuclear Generating Station (PNGS) Units 5 to 8, as well as from the eventual decommissioning of PNGS Units 1 to 4. However, the decision does not authorize any refurbishment activities at the generating station itself.
OPG would require a separate licence amendment to proceed with refurbishment work. A related application is expected to come before the Commission for a hearing in 2026.
The PWMF is located in Pickering, Ont., on the traditional lands and waters of the Michi Saagiig Anishinaabeg, covered by the Gunshot Treaty (1877–88), the Williams Treaties (1923), and the Williams Treaties Settlement Agreement (2018).
In reaching its decision, the Commission reviewed written submissions from OPG, CNSC staff and nine intervenors. It concluded that OPG is qualified to carry out the licensed activities and that the proposed facility meets safety, environmental and regulatory requirements.
A summary record of the decision is available through the Commission Registry. A full record of decision, including the Commission’s detailed assessment of submissions, will be published on the CNSC website in both official languages at a later date.
The CNSC is Canada’s independent nuclear regulator, responsible for protecting health, safety, security and the environment, and for ensuring compliance with international commitments on the peaceful use of nuclear energy. The commission operates as a quasi-judicial tribunal, independent from political, governmental and private sector influence.
