Ontario Construction News staff writer
Ontario’s government is moving ahead with the next stage of pre-development work for the proposed Bruce C Project, a major nuclear expansion initiative that could add up to 4,800 megawatts of new generation capacity at Bruce Power.
“This means thousands of union jobs, economic growth & reliable, made-in-Ontario energy by skilled tradespeople,” the Ontario Building and Construction Trades Council said in a statement. “The future of nuclear is built by OBT’s members.
“The pre-development phase includes ongoing readiness activities such as technology selection, workforce and commercial planning, site preparation cost estimates, cooling water strategies, community readiness assessments and Indigenous engagement.”
The project is currently in the Impact Statement phase, which includes consultation with Indigenous communities, municipal governments and the public. Work will continue alongside a federal integrated Impact Assessment and Licence to Prepare Site application process led by the Impact Assessment Agency of Canada and the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission.
“At a time when our economy faces threats from abroad, Ontario’s government is doubling down on made-in-Canada nuclear power,” Lecce said in a statement. “The Bruce C project will advance generational employment creating 18,900 net-new jobs, transforming Bruce Power into the world’s largest nuclear generating facility.”
The expansion is part of Ontario’s long-term electricity planning strategy as demand for power continues to grow through industrial development, electrification and population growth.
“Advancing early planning for Bruce C allows us to responsibly explore how additional nuclear generation on the Bruce site can play a crucial role in supporting Ontario’s long-term energy needs and drive economic stability and growth,” said James Scongack, chief operating officer and executive vice-president of Bruce Power.
The province will support additional research and engagement on issues identified as priorities by Saugeen Ojibway Nation.
As part of the planning process, Bruce Power is entering into agreements with the Municipality of Kincardine, the Town of Saugeen Shores and County of Bruce to provide annual funding for municipal readiness and assessment work.
“With the support we are receiving today, our communities can plan with confidence, continuing to meet the needs of our residents while our region helps power Ontario’s future,” said Bruce County Warden and Saugeen Shores.
.The assessments will examine potential impacts on housing, roads, emergency services, water and wastewater systems, land development, labour supply and other community infrastructure needs.
Bruce Power has also created a regional municipal assessment support fund for other municipalities across Bruce, Grey and Huron counties. The company said details on the application process for the fund will be released shortly.
Recent analysis commissioned through the Ontario Chamber of Commerce estimated the Bruce C Project could contribute more than $238 billion to Canada’s GDP over its lifespan while supporting an annual average of 18,900 jobs during site preparation and construction.
