Aecon Group Inc. and Atkins Realis have been awarded a significant $2.1 billion contract by Ontario Power Generation (OPG) to carry out early engineering and procurement work for the Pickering Nuclear Generating Station’s refurbishment program. This work is part of the broader retune feeder and boiler replacement initiative for the “B” units (Units 5, 6, 7, and 8) at the facility.
The contract is being executed by a joint venture known as Can Atom, which is responsible for various phases of the project. The scope of the early work includes crucial tasks such as engineering, procurement of long-lead components, and detailed construction planning. These initial steps are essential for setting up the groundwork for the multi-unit refurbishment, with the aim of preparing the station for a significant upgrade. According to the release, the completion of this planning and early works phase is projected for 2026.
Once the refurbishment is completed, Pickering Nuclear Generating Station will generate more than 2,000 megawatts of electricity, enough to power approximately two million homes. This significant power output will make a vital contribution to Ontario’s energy infrastructure. The full refurbishment of the station is expected to be finished by the mid-2030s, following a phased approach, ensuring that operations continue while upgrades are underway.
In addition to the work being handled by Can Atom, the retune feeder and boiler replacement program will involve collaboration with various other partners, including BWXT Canada, Notec, Cameco, and NWI Precision. These companies, located in different parts of Ontario, will contribute specialized services that are essential to the overall success of the refurbishment.
The Ontario government is backing OPG’s $4.1 billion budget for this particular phase of the refurbishment, bringing the total investment in the project to date to $6.2 billion. This investment underscores the commitment to ensuring the long-term sustainability of the Pickering Nuclear Generating Station. Furthermore, OPG has committed to spending $100 million with Indigenous companies throughout the course of the project, promoting economic opportunities within Indigenous communities.
Can Atom, the joint venture between Aecon and Atkins Realis, brings considerable experience to the table, having successfully completed parts of OPG’s Darlington Refurbishment Project. This project has seen three units completed ahead of schedule and is already more than 85 percent complete in its 10-year execution phase.
The full refurbishment of the Pickering Nuclear Generating Station is not only a major project in terms of energy production but also a significant economic opportunity. The Conference Board of Canada has projected that the entire Pickering refurbishment project will create approximately 11,000 jobs annually and contribute an estimated $19.4 billion to Ontario’s GDP over the 11-year project timeline. This investment in infrastructure will have long-lasting positive effects on both the province’s economy and its energy grid.