CNA congratulates Ontario Power Generation on approval of the Pickering Nuclear Generating Station life extension

OTTAWA (August 9, 2018) – The Canadian Nuclear Association (CNA) congratulates Ontario Power Generation (OPG) for receiving approval from the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) for a 10-year operating licence for the Pickering Nuclear Generating Station.

“This decision is good news for the people of Pickering and will protect 7,500 jobs across the province,” said CNA President and CEO John Barrett. “Keeping Pickering online until 2024 will also help Ontario keep its carbon emissions low during the refurbishments at the Darlington and Bruce nuclear facilities.”

“Nuclear is the backbone of Ontario’s electricity system. Helping Ontario and Canada transition to a low-carbon economy is just another important part of Ontario’s nuclear advantage,” added Barrett.

In June, a telephone poll conducted by the independent firm Innovative Research Group for the CNA found that 71% of Ontarians support extending the operating life of the Pickering Nuclear Generating Station.

“The polling results confirm that OPG not only has the CNSC’s confidence, but the public’s confidence to continue operations at Pickering,” said Barrett.

The licence will allow operations at Pickering to continue until 2024, followed by safe storage activities, such as removal of fuel and water, between 2024 and 2028.

About the CNA:

Since 1960, the Canadian Nuclear Association (CNA) has been the national voice of the Canadian nuclear industry. Working alongside our members and all communities of interest, the CNA promotes the industry nationally and internationally, works with governments on policies affecting the sector and works to increase awareness and understanding of the value nuclear technology brings to the environment, economy and the daily life of Canadians.

For more information:

Erin Polka
Manager of Communications and Media Relations
(613) 237-426210
polkae@cna.ca