Ontario has directed the Independent Electricity System Operator to enter into a cost-sharing agreement that enables Bruce Power to proceed with significant pre-development work on the Bruce C Nuclear Project. The province’s first large-scale nuclear initiative in more than 30 years represents a major commitment to energy security and economic development in mining-dependent regions.
The government will share $300 million in costs for activities including First Nations engagement, workforce planning, and site preparation through 2030. The proposed 4,800 megawatt facility will generate enough electricity to power 4.8 million homes while creating significant jobs in communities that have historically relied on resource extraction industries.
Mining Minister highlights economic benefits
“At a time when our economy faces threats from abroad, the Ontario government is redoubling its efforts on made-in-Canada nuclear,” said Stephen Lecce, Minister of Energy and Mines. “The Bruce C project will boost jobs for generations, creating 18,900 new jobs annually and transforming Bruce Power into the largest nuclear power generation facility in the world. Our government is thinking big and long term as we build on time and on budget, and lead the largest nuclear expansion on the continent that will deliver even greater success.” “Helping to put 150,000 Canadians to work, this is the economic spark that will help Ontario reindustrialize, attract investment that creates jobs, and keep energy reliably for families, farms and businesses.”
The project promises to inject $238 billion into Canada’s gross domestic product while creating 18,900 construction jobs and 6,700 permanent jobs. These employment numbers are particularly beneficial to areas such as Bruce, Gray and Huron counties, where traditional resource industries have faced challenges in recent decades.
Bruce Power currently operates eight reactors across two plants and maintains a supply chain where 95 percent of spending remains in Canada. The Ontario Chamber of Commerce expects the expansion to contribute $2 billion annually to local GDP and generate $427 million in labor income while supporting 3,400 full-time provincial jobs.
Building on the legacy of nuclear infrastructure
The Bruce C project leverages more than 60 years of nuclear experience at one of the world’s largest operational nuclear sites. This existing infrastructure helps reduce development timelines and costs while expanding Ontario’s nuclear capabilities, according to Bruce Power.
“Today’s support of pre-development work on the Bruce C project is a critical step in ensuring Ontario has the reliable, affordable, carbon-free electricity it needs for generations to come,” said Eric Chassard, President and CEO of Bruce Power. “We are taking important next steps to advance early development work while continuing meaningful engagement with Indigenous communities, local municipalities, our supply chain and business partners. Building on an existing world-class nuclear site positions Ontario to efficiently deliver new large-scale nuclear capacity, support thousands of good-paying jobs, and strengthen the province’s leadership in clean energy and nuclear innovation.”
This expansion supports Ontario’s strategy to address electricity demand growth of up to 90 per cent by 2050. Nuclear energy currently provides approximately 50 per cent of the province’s electricity supply and supports approximately 80,000 jobs across communities across Ontario.
Indigenous partnership and regional development
Ontario and Bruce Power have committed to continued collaboration with the Saugeen First Nation and the Chippewas of the Nawash Unceded First Nation, collectively known as the Saugeen Ojibway Nation. The Pre-Development Agreement provides capacity funding to meaningfully engage with these communities on their traditional lands.
The project is progressing alongside several other nuclear initiatives, including the refurbishment of the Darlington Nuclear Generating Station, Bruce Power’s Life Extension Program, and the construction of a small demonstration reactor at the Darlington site. Bruce Power began the federal impact assessment process in 2024 and is expected to complete it by 2028.
Many industry leaders expressed strong support for the project’s potential to strengthen local supply chains and create skilled jobs in regions seeking economic diversification beyond traditional resource sectors.
“Demand for electricity in Ontario is growing rapidly, and we need to take steps to ensure our grid remains reliable and affordable into the future,” said Leslie Gallinger, president and CEO of the Independent Electricity System Operator. “That’s why the Independent Electric System Operator has entered into a pre-development agreement with Bruce Power to support early preparation and planning for the Bruce C Nuclear Project. By enabling the first steps of projects like this one with extended lead times, we are ensuring the province is future-ready and prepared to meet electricity demand as it emerges.”
This initiative forms the cornerstone of Energy for Generations, Ontario’s long-term integrated energy strategy designed to ensure reliable, affordable energy while driving economic growth across the province.
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