- The government of Ontario and Bruce Power have signed a cost‑sharing agreement worth up to C$300 million to fund pre‑development work on Bruce C, a project that could add up to 4,800 MW of new nuclear capacity.
- The expansion could deliver power for 4.8 million homes, generate C$238 billion in GDP, create 18,900 construction jobs and 6,700 operational jobs.
- Polling shows 86% of local residents support exploring the project, with 91% believing it would benefit the community.
Ontario is taking a significant step toward building what would be the world’s largest nuclear plant, approving a C$300 million cost‑sharing arrangement with Bruce Power to advance pre‑development of the proposed Bruce C reactors.
The move underscores Canada’s renewed faith in large‑scale nuclear power to meet surging electricity demand and decarbonisation goals.
Earlier this month, Ontario’s government instructed its Independent Electricity System Operator to finalise a cost‑sharing agreement with Bruce Power for up to C$300 million. The funds will support environmental assessments, community engagement, workforce planning and site preparations through 2030.
Bruce C would be built adjacent to the existing Bruce A and B stations on the shores of Lake Huron. With eight units already operating, the combined site currently generates about 6,584 MW; the addition of up to 4,800 MW would make it the largest single nuclear site in the world.
Ontario Energy Minister Stephen Lecce said the expansion would power roughly 4.8 million homes, add C$238 billion to Canada’s GDP and create nearly 19,000 construction jobs and 6,700 permanent jobs.
The province sees nuclear power as a reliable, low‑carbon backbone for its grid, especially as demand is projected to double by 2050 due to electrification of transport and industry. Community surveys conducted by Bruce Power show strong support for the project, with 86% backing exploration and 91% expecting economic benefits.
Economic benefits vs. costs
Canada has not built a large new reactor since the 1990s, and global attention has shifted toward small modular reactors (SMRs). The Bruce C project would reverse that trend, signalling confidence in conventional large‑reactor technology.
If approved, the facility could set a blueprint for other jurisdictions seeking firm baseload power to complement intermittent renewables. The project also highlights the importance of community engagement and indigenous community participation, which supporters say will be essential to secure social licence.
Critics caution that nuclear megaprojects carry significant construction risks and cost overruns. Ontario is still paying for the budget blowouts of earlier nuclear builds. Environmental groups also argue that investments would be better directed toward renewables, storage and efficiency. Nonetheless, the provincial government emphasises that a diversified mix including nuclear is vital for grid reliability.
Ontario’s plans offer a counterpoint to the small modular reactor strategies pursued at home. British companies involved in nuclear supply chains may find opportunities in equipment and services, while policymakers will observe the success or challenges of such a large‑scale build.
The project also serves as a reminder that nuclear remains a key option for jurisdictions seeking to meet net‑zero targets while ensuring firm power generation. With regulatory reviews and community consultations continuing through the decade, Bruce C will be a bellwether for the nuclear industry’s global revival.
