Economic benefits of Darlington Refurbishment already being felt

In a little over 100 days, OPG’s Darlington Nuclear Generating Station will undergo one of the largest infrastructure projects in Canada: a massive refurbishment, which will keep the station running smoothly for another 30 years. Darlington provides Ontario with more than 3,500 megawatts of clean, reliable power, but the project is essential to more than just power production.

The $12.8-billion refurbishment investment is expected to generate $14.9 billion in economic benefits for the province. In addition to the thousands of construction jobs created at the station, the project will involve some 60 Ontario major companies and contractors supplying components for the project. Already, the impact is being felt in the business community.

Just ask the experts at Nu-Tech. The Arnprior-based company has been around since the 1950s, diligently making pressure tubes for CANDU reactors. The tubes are essential components for generating stations across the country –and thanks to the refurbishment, Nu-Tech will be making a lot more.

“Nu-Tech probably wouldn't exist, and certainly not inOntario, without CANDU refurbishment,” says George Legate, President of Nu-Tech.

Nu-Tech isn’t just making components for Darlington. The station is one of 47 CANDU units performing worldwide. Recognizing their ability to produce large quantities of clean, reliable base load power, generating companies in Canada and abroad have been refurbishing these massive powerhouses.

Refurbishing CANDU reactors has become so important that Nu-Tech has opened a second plant to meet demand. “In 2005 we purchased a second plant in Arnprior to handle the volume of re-tubing five reactors concurrently,” says Legate.

By refurbishing Darlington, OPG ensures one of Ontario’s best performing generators remains safe, clean, and affordable. Right now, the station serves about 20 per cent of Ontario’s electricity needs. Along the way, it will create an average of 8,800 construction jobs at the station each year, as well as preserve 3,000 permanent jobs. It’s scheduled for completion in 2026.

“Refurbishing Darlington is an investment in Ontario," says OPG President and CEO Jeff Lyash.“ It’s an investment in clean air, in jobs, innovation, and in lower energy prices. OPG has been preparing for refurbishment since 2009 and we’re ready to deliver the job safely, on time and on budget.”