Refurbishment will create 30,500 good-paying jobs, supporting Canadian sovereignty and strengthening domestic supply chains
PICKERING — As President Trump continues to target Ontario’s economy, the government is acting to secure Ontario’s energy future with the start of construction on the Pickering Nuclear Generating Station refurbishment, Canada’s largest clean energy infrastructure project. As part of its plan to protect Ontario and build a stronger, more self-reliant economy, the project will extend the life of Pickering’s four CANDU reactors by up to 38 years, creating approximately 30,500 jobs annually during construction and 7,500 jobs across Canada over its lifespan. By greenlighting this job-creating project, Ontario is securing decades of reliable, affordable and clean power that Ontario needs to build new homes, attract investment and grow a stronger, more self-reliant economy.
“When the previous government planned to shut down Pickering, our government chose to protect 4,500 jobs and create 30,500 new jobs by doubling down on Canadian workers, technology and energy sovereignty,” said Stephen Lecce, Minister of Energy and Mines. “Today, we are marking a national achievement as we begin work on Canada’s largest clean energy infrastructure project and strengthen our made-in-Ontario nuclear supply chain. The best way Ontario can fight back against President Trump is to build big, which is why we are saying yes to 30,500 jobs, 38 more years of clean power and a stronger Ontario economy. I’m proud that we are not only moving this historic project forward, but awarding contracts that will keep more than 90 per cent of project costs right here in Ontario.”
Following the Ontario government’s approval of Ontario Power Generation’s (OPG) refurbishment plan, the Pickering B units (Units 5 to 8) will be removed from service by the end of September 2026. Once complete, the refurbished station will supply up to 2,200 megawatts (MW) of reliable, affordable power – enough to power 2.2 million homes. Refurbishment will include replacing 1,520 fuel channels, 48 boilers and construction of a 1.5-kilometre deep-water intake. With site construction beginning today, reactor refurbishment work will begin pending final approval from the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) in January 2027.
Built with Canadian technology and a made-in-Ontario supply chain, the refurbishment is expected to contribute $41.6 billion to Canada’s GDP, with more than 90 per cent of project spending staying in Ontario and Canada. Major contracts awarded to Ontario-based suppliers as part of this work include:
- Aecon Group Inc. and Candu Energy, an AtkinsRéalis company, for the execution phase of Pickering’s Unit 5 Retube, Feeder and Boiler Replacement (RFBR) project, valued at approximately $1.7 billion.
- Aecon Group Inc. and Siemens Energy Canada, for Turbine Generator Replacement, including the installation of 14 steam turbine rotors, full stator rewinds, the overhaul of four generators, the delivery of new auxiliary systems and a control and monitoring system valued at $1.3 billion.
“Ontario’s investments in critical infrastructure and our key industries are creating new opportunities for workers across the province,” said Trevor Jones, Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development. “At a time of global economic uncertainty, we are creating good-paying jobs here at home and ensuring our workers have access to the training they need to seize them. By expanding access to apprenticeships and skills training, we are building the workforce Ontario needs to deliver major projects like the Pickering refurbishment and support our continued growth.”
Beyond providing reliable electricity, the Pickering refurbishment will deliver lasting benefits for workers, families and communities across Durham Region and Ontario. The refurbishment will protect highly skilled local jobs and generate more than $17 billion in economic activity across Durham Region and Ontario, creating opportunities for local businesses and communities. Building on Ontario’s world-class nuclear expertise and the lessons learned from the ahead-of-schedule, under-budget Darlington Refurbishment Project, a new 200,000-square-foot Retube, Feeder and Boiler Replacement Training and Mock-up facility will train more than 2,800 skilled trades workers ahead of refurbishment activities, strengthening Ontario’s workforce and made-in-Ontario nuclear supply chain.
“The Pickering Nuclear Refurbishment is a historic investment in Ontario’s clean energy future,” said Peter Bethlenfalvy, MPP for Pickering-Uxbridge. “By creating more than 30,000 jobs, generating billions in economic activity and strengthening our made-in-Ontario nuclear supply chain, this project will deliver generational benefits for workers and families in Pickering and communities across the province.”
As global economic uncertainty and U.S. tariffs place increasing pressure on workers and businesses, our government is moving with speed to strengthen Ontario’s economic sovereignty and energy security while maintaining rigorous regulatory oversight and the highest standards of nuclear safety. The Pickering refurbishment is part of Ontario’s broader plan to expand nuclear generation and strengthen a tariff-proof, recession-proof and almost entirely made-in-Canada industry. Together, Ontario’s nuclear expansion plan will create up to 150,000 jobs and contribute more than $800 billion in GDP to the provincial economy, while providing the reliable, affordable and clean electricity needed to power homes, businesses and future growth.
Refurbishing Ontario’s nuclear fleet is a key pillar of Energy for Generations, our government’s first-ever integrated energy plan to ensure Ontario has the reliable, affordable power needed to support new homes, attract investment and drive economic growth. By extending the life of proven nuclear assets, Ontario is securing decades of electricity at a lower cost than replacing that generation with new sources of power. The government’s integrated approach and record investments in energy infrastructure are providing the certainty needed for municipalities, businesses and industry partners to invest confidently in Ontario’s future. By planning and building today, Ontario is protecting jobs, supporting workers and securing the affordable, reliable energy needed to power economic growth for generations to come.
Quick Facts
- The Pickering refurbishment builds on Ontario’s proven track record of delivering major nuclear projects, including the Darlington refurbishment delivered nearly five months ahead of schedule and $150 million under budget and the recent Bruce Power Unit 3 Major Component Replacement, completed seven months ahead of schedule and under budget, saving ratepayers $150 million.
- The Pickering “B” refurbishment is expected to secure a long-term supply of Cobalt-60, a life-saving medical isotope used worldwide in cancer treatments and in the sterilization of medical equipment and food products, while supporting the government’s work to double the number of medical isotopes produced in the province over the next four years.
- Ontario’s Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO) forecasts that the province’s electricity demand could increase by as much as 90 per cent by 2050, due to population growth, new housing, electrification, advanced manufacturing, and expansion of critical minerals supply chains.
- In September 2022, the Ontario government announced that OPG would continue to safely operate the “B” units (units 5 to 8) at the Pickering Nuclear Generating Station through September 2026, pending CNSC approval.
- In October 2024, CNSC authorized Pickering B units to operate until the end of 2026. Further operation of Pickering B units would require a complete refurbishment.
- In December 2024, OPG completed the Project Initiation Phase of the Pickering refurbishment which included early engineering and design work, as well as securing components that require the longest-lead times.
- In January 2025, the government approved OPG to proceed with the Project Definition Phase of the Pickering refurbishment that will continue through 2026.
- In November 2025, the Ontario government approved OPG’s plan to refurbish four CANDU nuclear reactors at the Pickering Nuclear Generating Station.
- Nuclear power currently provides about 50 per cent of Ontario’s electricity supply and has positioned Ontario as one of the cleanest electricity grids in the world.
- Ontario’s nuclear industry currently supports around 80,000 good-paying jobs in communities across the province.
Quotes
“Ontario has a real plan to build a secure energy future for our industries and communities, and the Pickering refurbishment project is a clear demonstration of that plan in action. This project will support thousands of good-paying jobs, strengthen Ontario’s nuclear supply chains, and build out the resilient energy system Ontario needs for the decades ahead.”
– Matthew Rae
Associate Minister of Energy-Intensive Industries
“With global businesses looking to expand in jurisdictions with reliable, affordable and clean electricity, the start of construction of the Pickering Refurbishment will help Ontario compete for and continue to land more game-changing investments. Today’s announcement protects good union jobs, and will help our province produce low-cost, emissions-free power as we electrify our economy into the future.”
– Lorne Coe
MPP, Whitby
“With electricity demand in Ontario and across Canada set to increase up to 90 per cent by 2050, our government is making the necessary investments to extend the life of Pickering’s four CANDU reactors, securing thousand of jobs and securing our energy needs. During this time of economic uncertainty, it is imperative we secure Ontario’s energy future by protecting energy-sector jobs and delivering clean, reliable, and affordable nuclear energy to the thousands of homes in Ontario and across Canada in the decades to come.”
– Todd McCarthy
MPP, Durham
“There is no better time than now to invest in clean, reliable nuclear energy projects that extend Pickering’s legacy, while supporting good paying Ontario jobs and strengthening our made in Ontario supply chain. This marks an important step for the region, Ontario, and Canada as we secure Pickering’s future for generations.”
– David Piccini
MPP, Northumberland-Peterborough South
“Pickering Nuclear Generating Station has built an exceptional legacy as one of the world’s highest-performing nuclear facilities, consistently delivering reliable, low-cost electricity for Ontarians for more than 50 years. This project will support thousands of local jobs on site and throughout Ontario’s and Canada’s robust nuclear supply chain during this complex refurbishment and as the station continues to serve Ontarians for generations to come.”
– Nicolle Butcher
President and CEO, Ontario Power Generation
“Advancing into execution on the Pickering Refurbishment project is a major step forward for Ontario’s clean energy future and highlights Aecon’s proven leadership as Canada’s nuclear constructor. Building on decades of experience safely delivering complex nuclear projects, we are proud to support OPG in extending the life of this essential asset and ensuring reliable electricity to meet the needs of generations to come.”
– Jean-Louis Servranckx
President and CEO, Aecon Group Inc.
“AtkinsRéalis brings decades of hands-on experience refurbishing Canadian-owned CANDU reactors in Ontario, with a proven track record of delivering complex life-extension work safely, reliably and with the discipline required for on-time and on-budget performance. This work at the Pickering station will help ensure Ontario continues to benefit from reliable, affordable and low-carbon electricity for decades to come.”
– Ian L. Edwards
President and CEO, AtkinsRéalis
“The decision by Ontario and OPG to advance Pickering’s life extension is enabling hundreds of people in the province to build rewarding careers in the nuclear industry. Producing 48 steam generators for Pickering is important work for us. In fact, it has spurred an $80 million investment in BWXT’s Cambridge plant, the largest manufacturing facility of its kind in North America for commercial reactor components, and created opportunities for more than 200 new skilled workers and professional staff.”
– John MacQuarrie
President, BWXT Commercial Operations
“Ontario’s nuclear advantage is built by skilled union workers, powered by Canadian expertise and strengthened by a domestic supply chain that creates good-paying careers and lasting opportunities across our province. The refurbishment of Pickering is exactly the kind of bold, nation-building investment we need as we work together to strengthen our energy security, grow our economy and ensure Ontario has the reliable power needed to build for generations to come. LiUNA commends Minister Lecce and the Government of Ontario, together with our partners at OPG for their leadership and continued confidence in our skilled workforce. At a time of economic uncertainty and growing pressures beyond our borders, we must continue investing in what we build, produce and power here at home. LiUNA Members are proud to help power that progress forward.”
– Joseph Mancinelli
International Vice President and Canadian Director, LiUNA
“The Canadian Union of Skilled Workers fully supports Ontario’s decision to move forward with the refurbishment of the Pickering Nuclear Generating Station. This investment will help secure Ontario’s energy future while creating meaningful opportunities for skilled tradespeople, apprentices and Indigenous workers and communities. Major projects like Pickering Refurbishment are an opportunity to build the next generation of Ontario’s skilled workforce by expanding apprenticeship pathways, providing young women and men with careers in the trades and strengthening Indigenous participation in our energy sector. By investing in Canadian workers, Canadian expertise, and Canadian technology, we are building the workforce and energy infrastructure Ontario needs to remain strong, competitive and increasingly self-reliant for generations to come.”
– John Wabb
National Executive Board Chairperson, Canadian Union of Skilled Workers
“Nuclear refurbishments are a key component of Ontario’s bulk electrical system. Refurbishing Pickering’s four reactors provides long-term energy stability, built by a proven unionized workforce and a made-in-Ontario supply chain. EPSCA’s members are fully committed to executing this landmark project safely, efficiently, and on time.”
– Caitlin Gascon
General Manager, EPSCA
“The refurbishment of Pickering Nuclear is a generational investment in Ontario’s electricity system, its economy and its skilled workforce. PWU members have safely operated and maintained Pickering for decades, and they will continue to play an important role in its future. Building on Ontario’s proven nuclear expertise and the success at Darlington, this project will secure reliable, low-carbon electricity for more than 30 years while supporting thousands of highly skilled, good-paying jobs. As electricity demand continues to grow, investments like Pickering are essential to ensuring Ontario has the reliable power and skilled workforce it needs for the future.”
– Andrew Clunis
President, Power Workers’ Union
“Pickering’s refurbishment is a generational investment in Ontario’s economy and Canada’s energy future. It will create tens of thousands of skilled jobs, drive investment across the nuclear supply chain and build the expertise we need for the next generation of nuclear projects. Most importantly, it will deliver reliable, low-carbon power as electricity demand grows, helping strengthen Ontario’s energy security while creating economic opportunities that reach far beyond the station itself.”
– George Christidis
President and CEO, Canadian Nuclear Association
“Made-in-Ontario large-scale nuclear gives this province the power to grow. Construction on the Pickering Nuclear Generating Station will help pave the way for reliable, secure energy that supports new investment, expands our domestic industrial base and creates good jobs across the province, all while strengthening Ontario’s clean energy advantage. The decisions we make today will shape our ability to compete internationally for decades to come.”
– Jessica Linthorne
President and CEO, Nuclear Innovation Institute
“APPrO strongly supports the Government’s decision to move forward with the refurbishment of OPG’s Pickering B Nuclear Generating Station. Ontario’s recent track record on nuclear refurbishments is the envy of the world, with multiple generating units being returned to service below budget and ahead of schedule. Utilizing Canadian technology, Ontario labour and a made-in-Ontario supply chain, refurbishing the Pickering units will help to ensure that Ontario has the affordable, reliable and clean electricity needed to power economic growth, attract investment, and protect the province’s long-term energy security for decades to come.”
– Colin Anderson
President and CEO, APPrO
“The Pickering refurbishment is another important milestone for Ontario’s nuclear sector and reflects the province’s continued leadership in nuclear energy. It will extend the contribution of Canadian CANDU technology, support highly skilled jobs and help reinvigorate Canada’s nuclear supply chain. Continued investment in projects like Pickering also builds confidence across the industry and ensures we retain the people, expertise and capabilities needed for the next generation of nuclear projects.”
– Erveina Gosalci
Founder and CEO, Canadian Association of Small Modular Reactors (CASMR)
“The Society of Professional Engineers and Associates (SPEA) represents nearly 2,000 of the engineers behind CANDU technology. When we keep this work at home, the benefits stay at home too: good jobs, a stronger made-in-Ontario supply chain, and a bigger share of the economic upside staying in Canada instead of going elsewhere. Our members have the skills and experience to deliver this project from start to finish, and we’re ready to keep doing exactly that, for Ontario and for Canada.”
– Mark Chudak
President, Society of Professional Engineers and Associates (SPEA/Unifor Local 7474)
“The Pickering Nuclear refurbishment shows what a self-reliant economy looks like in the face of international pressures. Carpenters’ Regional Council members play a crucial role in building, maintaining, and revitalizing Ontario’s energy infrastructure, and are ready to bring that experience to this project. Today’s announcement reflects the strength of Ontario’s nuclear industry and proves that investments in nation building projects are investments in good paying jobs for skilled trades workers.”
– Ryan Plante
Area Manager Southwest Ontario, Carpenters’ Regional Council
“To build a more competitive Ontario, we need the energy to power our ambitions. The Pickering refurbishment is an investment in the reliable, clean electricity that businesses need to create jobs, attract investment, and keep Ontario growing.”
– Daniel Tisch
President and CEO, Ontario Chamber of Commerce
“The Whitby Chamber of Commerce strongly supports the refurbishment of the Pickering Nuclear Generating Station and the significant economic opportunity it represents for Durham Region and Ontario. This investment will help secure reliable energy, support skilled jobs, strengthen our Canadian nuclear supply chain and create opportunities for businesses across our region. Investing in Canadian technology, Canadian workers and made-in-Ontario expertise is an investment in our long-term economic future.”
– Karey Anne Large
CEO, Whitby Chamber of Commerce
“Ontario’s demand for electricity continues to rise rapidly, and we need to take forward-looking actions to keep our grid reliable and affordable into the future. Refurbishing Pickering Nuclear Generating Station will ensure it can continue to deliver reliable power for decades to come while creating jobs and leveraging existing infrastructure, land, and expertise.”
– Carla Nell
Executive Vice-President of Corporate Relations, Engagement and Strategy, IESO
“The Pickering refurbishment project brings together two of Canada’s greatest nuclear energy strengths: OPG’s proven record of delivering complex refurbishment projects on- time and on- budget, and the depth of expertise, industrial capability, and skilled workforce across Ontario and Canada’s nuclear supply chain. Together, these capabilities provide a strong foundation for the work ahead. OCNI welcomes this important milestone, and we are proud that our members will play an important role in supporting Ontario’s energy future and strengthening Canada’s nuclear industry for decades to come.”
– Ivette Vera Perez
President and CEO, OCNI
“We welcome the refurbishment project that brings a significant influx of jobs and local spending which is especially welcomed during this turbulent economic time. And the continued operations of the units retains highly skilled jobs for our community and safe, reliable, and cost-effective electricity for homes and businesses across our province.”
– Sadiya Qureshi
Executive Director, Ajax-Pickering Board of Trade
“The Society of United Professionals welcomes today’s announcement. The refurbishment of Pickering Units 5-8, along with the rest of Ontario’s existing nuclear fleet, is an essential piece of the province’s electrification and climate goals. Not only does today’s announcement protect thousands of good union jobs today, but it also creates the groundwork for rewarding unionized careers for the next generation of nuclear professionals.”
– Rebecca Caron
President, Society of United Professionals’