Ontario Construction News staff writer
The provincial government is taking initial steps toward potentially constructing a new nuclear power plant near Port Hope, which could become the largest of its kind in the province if realized.
Energy Minister Stephen Lecce announced on Wednesday that Ontario Power Generation (OPG) is exploring the possibility following positive discussions with local municipalities and First Nations communities.
“We anticipate a 75 percent increase in power demand—equivalent to adding four-and-a-half cities the size of Toronto to the grid,” Lecce stated at a press conference. “This expansion of clean nuclear energy will cut emissions and significantly boost our economy, offering substantial benefits.”
In November, Lecce tasked OPG with engaging municipalities and First Nations communities around three OPG-owned sites to explore potential locations for new power generation, including nuclear plants.
Port Hope, along with the Williams Treaties First Nations, has expressed willingness to continue discussions. OPG is also considering other sites for new energy generation, including the Nanticoke location in Haldimand County and the Lambton site in St. Clair.
OPG officials have confirmed a plan to begin environmental and impact assessments this year for the Wesleyville site, located near Port Hope. The goal is to secure construction and operational licenses by the 2030s, with operations potentially starting in the 2040s.
Originally proposed in the late 1970s as an oil-fired plant, the Wesleyville project was shelved due to economic factors. Now, OPG believes the site could support a nuclear facility with a capacity of 8,000 to 10,000 megawatts, making it larger than any existing nuclear plants in Ontario.
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