Ontario Construction News staff writer
Ontario’s Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO) has approved Bruce Power’s plan to move forward with the Unit 5 Major Component Replacement (MCR) project in 2026.
This will mark Bruce Power’s fourth MCR outage as part of its ongoing effort to refurbish Units 3-8 over the next eight years. The upgrades aim to extend the life of the units, providing clean, affordable electricity to Ontarians while ensuring a stable supply of medical isotopes for patients globally.
Bruce Power credits the success of its refurbishment projects to the experience gained from previous upgrades. “Our government is focused on providing affordable power while securing more energy that is built by and for Canadians,” said Energy Minister Stephen Lecce. “Renewing Bruce Power’s Unit 5 MCR, along with almost all of our nuclear fleet, will help ensure we have a reliable supply of clean, affordable electricity for generations to come.”
The privately funded projects contribute $10 billion annually to the economy, supporting local and provincial growth and strengthening Canada’s energy independence. Bruce Power’s Life-Extension Program, the country’s largest private sector clean energy initiative, ensures that about 90% of the purchasing is done within Canada, benefiting hundreds of businesses across Ontario.
This program also generates long-term employment opportunities, creating and sustaining 22,000 jobs in the province each year.
