Ontario Advances 18,900 Nuclear Jobs at Bruce Power

Press Release

May 07, 2026

Bruce C Project moves forward Canada’s first large-scale nuclear build in 30 years

ETOBICOKE — As part of its plan to protect Ontario and build a more competitive, resilient and self-reliant economy, the government is taking a major step to build the Bruce C Nuclear Project, the province’s first large-scale nuclear project in over 30 years. Ontario has directed the Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO) to enter into a cost-sharing and recovery agreement, enabling Bruce Power to move forward with critical activities including First Nations and community engagement, workforce planning, and pre-construction and site preparation planning. These activities are expected to cost $300 million and be completed by 2030. The proposed up to 4,800 megawatt (MW) nuclear generating station will provide enough power for 4.8 million homes, inject $238 billion into Canada’s GDP and creating 18,900 jobs during construction and 6,700 once operational.

“At a time when our economy faces threats from abroad, Ontario’s government is doubling down on made-in-Canada nuclear power,” said Stephen Lecce, Minister of Energy and Mines. “The Bruce C project will advance generational employment creating 18,900 net-new jobs per year, transforming Bruce Power into the world’s largest nuclear generating facility. Our government is thinking big and long-term as we build on-time and on-budget, leading the largest nuclear expansion on the continent that will help put 150,000 Canadians to work. This is the economic spark that will help Ontario reindustrialize, attract job creating investment, and keep power reliable for families, farms and businesses.”

As Ontario faces electricity demand growth by up to 90 per cent by 2050, the province is acting now to build the necessary capacity to keep the lights on and power affordable. While other countries scramble to secure reliable sources of power, Ontario is moving forward as part of its first-ever integrated energy plan, Energy for Generations, to make sure we have the power available to avoid potential future disruptions such as brownouts or blackouts seen in other jurisdictions.

Bruce Power currently operates two generating stations – Bruce A and B – powering eight total reactors. Bruce C builds on more than 60 years of nuclear expertise and innovation, supported by a highly skilled workforce and robust domestic supply chain – currently 95 per cent of Bruce Power’s spending stays in Canada. This year, the Ontario Chamber of Commerce released a landmark report highlighting the project’s significant opportunity to bring an annual average of $2 billion contributed to local GDP, $427 million in labour income and 3,400 full-time jobs to surrounding communities. Through this agreement, IESO will share in the costs incurred by Bruce Power to continue advancing key predevelopment activities including engagement with First Nations, local communities, building trades and suppliers, which will occur alongside the work currently underway for completion of the federal Impact Assessment (IA) and receipt of a Licence to Prepare Site from the federal Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC).

“Today’s support for pre-development work on the Bruce C Project is a critical step in ensuring Ontario has the reliable, affordable and carbon‑free electricity it needs for generations to come,” said Eric Chassard, President and CEO of Bruce Power. “We are taking important next steps to advance early development work while continuing meaningful engagement with Indigenous communities, local municipalities and our supply chain and labour partners. Building at an existing world‑class nuclear site positions Ontario to deliver new large‑scale nuclear capacity efficiently, support thousands of good‑paying jobs, and reinforce the province’s leadership in clean energy and nuclear innovation.”

Located at one of the largest operating nuclear sites in the world, Bruce C will build on this existing infrastructure, helping to reduce development timelines and costs while expanding Ontario’s world-class nuclear fleet. This advances the province’s strong track record of delivering large-scale nuclear projects including the successful refurbishment of the Darlington Nuclear Generating Station, the ongoing Bruce Power Life Extension program, construction of the first of four small modular reactors (SMRs) in the G7 at the Darlington site, advancement of new nuclear generation at the Wesleyville site, and the refurbishment of the Pickering Nuclear Generating Station.

Ontario and Bruce Power are also committed to continued cooperation and engagement with both Saugeen First Nation and Chippewas of Nawash Unceded First Nation communities (collectively the Saugeen Ojibway Nation (SON) when it comes to energy planning and future projects on their traditional territory. This predevelopment agreement will provide capacity funding to engage in this important work with the SON and communities in Bruce, Grey and Huron counties.

Advancing Bruce C supports the government’s plan to protect Ontario and is a key part of Energy for Generations, the government’s long-term approach to ensuring the province has the reliable, affordable power it needs to be energy secure and drive economic growth. The government’s integrated approach and record-setting investments in energy infrastructure are also providing the certainty needed for Indigenous communities, municipalities, businesses and industry partners to invest confidently in Ontario’s future.

Quick Facts

• In 2024, Bruce Power commenced a federal Impact Assessment process, the first step in a multi-year process for approving new large-scale nuclear power generation projects and expects it to be completed in 2028.
• In 2024, the Ontario government also issued a Minister’s Directive to the IESO to enter into a cost sharing and recovery agreement with Bruce Power for the Bruce C IA.
• 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. It ensures the clean, reliable and affordable power needed to support new housing, advanced manufacturing, and growing communities.
• Ontario’s nuclear industry supports around 80,000 good-paying jobs in communities across the province.

Quotes

“Bruce Power has proven to be a trusted partner in Ontario’s nuclear sector. Over the last 25 years Bruce Power demonstrated that clean, reliable and affordable energy is the foundation on which to build thriving and diverse local provincial economies. Advancing Bruce C will undoubtedly energize the entire sector which in turn will continue to drive generational innovation and success with respect to both nuclear energy and related economic development opportunities in the region and across Ontario.”

– Lisa Thompson
MPP, Huron-Bruce

“Today’s announcement marks a big step towards securing Ontario’s energy future, and the people and businesses of Bruce County are ready to play a big part.”
– Paul Vickers
MPP, Bruce-Grey-Owen Sound

“On behalf of the Municipality of Kincardine, I want to congratulate the Ontario government for its continued leadership and investment in the nuclear sector. By enabling Bruce Power to move forward with critical early work, the province is strengthening a clean, reliable energy system that benefits all of Ontario, while supporting jobs, innovation, and long-term economic stability.”
– Kenneth Craig
Mayor, Municipality of Kincardine

“We understand both the opportunity and the responsibility that come with projects of this scale. With the support we are receiving today, our communities can plan with confidence—continuing to meet the needs of our residents while our region helps power Ontario’s future.”
– Luke Charbonneau
Bruce County Warden and Saugeen Shores Mayor

“This announcement represents an important moment for Ontario’s nuclear future and the advancement of the Bruce C project. This bold, long-term commitment by the Ontario Government to expand our resilient, world class nuclear sector—strengthens Canada’s supply chain, creates generational economic opportunity, and positions Canada at the forefront of nuclear development. Kinectrics is proud to support the nuclear energy sector, bringing deep technical expertise, innovation, and trusted delivery that can be leveraged to help ensure next-generation nuclear sites are developed safely, reliably, and successfully for decades to come.”
– David Harris
President and CEO, Kinectrics

“The Ontario Chamber’s research shows that the Bruce C nuclear project can contribute $238 billion to Canada’s GDP and support 18,900 jobs nationwide, while strengthening Ontario’s domestic supply chain. It’s an investment in both meeting growing electricity demand and keeping Ontario competitive.”
– Daniel Tisch
President and CEO, Ontario Chamber of Commerce

“Ontario is taking an important step forward by advancing early work on Bruce C, helping ensure the province is prepared for rising electricity demand. This project reflects the strength of Ontario’s nuclear sector, while supporting thousands of highly skilled union jobs, driving economic growth, and building on a proven foundation of expertise and infrastructure to deliver reliable power for the future.”
– Andrew Clunis
President, Power Workers Union

“The Society of United Professionals welcomes the government’s continued progress toward a new, full-scale nuclear build at the Bruce site. As the union representing the highly skilled professionals at the IESO and at Bruce Power, we know firsthand that Ontario has the expertise needed to deliver a project of this scale. Our members stand ready to bring their knowledge, experience, and commitment to collaboration to this critical nation-building initiative. Ontario’s nuclear sector is built on the strength of its workforce. Expanding generation capacity is not only essential to meeting growing energy demand—it is an opportunity to create good, unionized jobs and long-term careers that will strengthen communities across the province for generations to come.”
– Rebecca Caron
President, IFPTE 160 – Society of United Professionals

“This is an incredibly exciting milestone for Ontario’s energy future. The Bruce C Nuclear Project will build on our province’s world-class nuclear expertise, and power Ontario’s growth. I commend Minister Lecce, the Government of Ontario, and Bruce Power for their true leadership. NPX, along with our partners Makwa Dev, are thrilled to support this initiative as the Project Managers for the next phase of the Bruce C project.”
– Bharath Nangia
CEO, Nuclear Promise X (NPX)

“Ontario’s demand for electricity is rising rapidly, and we need to take steps to ensure our grid remains reliable and affordable into the future. That’s why the Independent Electricity System Operator has entered into a pre-development agreement with Bruce Power to support early preparation and planning for the Bruce C Nuclear Project. By enabling first steps for projects like this one with significant lead times, we are ensuring the province is future-ready and prepared to meet electricity demand as it emerges.”
– Lesley Gallinger
President and CEO, Independent Electricity System Operator

“Ontario’s direction to advance early work on Bruce C is a leadership decision that strengthens project execution. Early planning and site readiness give the supply chain the lead time to align capacity, qualify vendors, secure long-lead components, and scale workforce readiness. OCNI represents 250+ nuclear suppliers employing more than 89,000 people in Canada, and this step helps ensure Ontario can deliver new nuclear on schedule, on budget, and with clear pathways for Indigenous and local participation.”
– Ivette Vera-Perez
President and CEO, Organization of Canadian Nuclear Industries (OCNI)

“The Economic Developers Council of Ontario (EDCO) applauds the Ontario Government and the Ministry of Energy and Mines for their continued efforts to ensure future electricity demands are met. Access to power is key for attracting investment to Ontario and by building on existing infrastructure at Bruce Power this announcement not only demonstrates the government’s forward-thinking approach but also supports the creation of more skilled trades jobs.”
– Stephanie Crilly
Executive Director, Economic Developers Council of Ontario (EDCO)

“On behalf of LiUNA members who build and power Ontario, we strongly support the decision to direct the Independent Electricity System Operator to enter into a cost-sharing and recovery agreement to advance the Bruce C. This is a critical step that moves the project from planning to progress, enabling early works, reducing risk, and ensuring Ontario is ready to meet growing electricity demand. Under the leadership of Minister Lecce and the Ford government, Ontario is not just talking about energy security, it is delivering it. This is the kind of nation-building policy this moment demands. We look forward to continued collaboration between labour, government, and industry to secure reliable power, drive economic growth, and support thousands of good, union jobs for skilled workers across the province.”
– Joe Mancinelli
International Vice President and Canadian Director, LiUNA

“Ontario’s steps to advance the Bruce C Nuclear Project mark an important investment in securing a greater capacity for reliable and affordable electricity while expanding opportunities for skilled trades workers who will build this infrastructure. Projects of this scale don’t just keep the lights on — they drive economic growth, strengthen our domestic supply chain, and ensure that skilled tradespeople are at the centre of building Ontario’s future. Our members have the expertise and experience to deliver complex projects like this safely and efficiently, and we’re ready to get to work.”
– Marc Arsenault
Business Manager and Secretary-Treasurer, Provincial Building and Construction Trades Council of Ontario

“Framatome fully supports Ontario’s decision to advance the Bruce C Nuclear Project. This milestone reinforces the province’s leadership in nuclear innovation, and we are proud to contribute our global expertise, local skilled workforce, and strong domestic and global supply chain to help deliver the safe, reliable, and affordable clean energy Ontario needs for generations.”
– Tom Uzzel
CEO, Framatome

“The Bruce C project represents a pivotal step in securing Ontario’s long term energy future. Investments like this demonstrate confidence in modern nuclear technologies as a proven, reliable source of clean, baseload power and signal continued momentum for Canada’s nuclear industry. Advancing major projects today is essential to ensuring energy security, economic growth, and a resilient electricity system for generations to come. Cameco looks forward to working with the province and Bruce Power to help deliver Ontario’s nuclear future.”
– Tim Gitzel
CEO, Cameco

“The OEA applauds the government’s recognition that economic growth requires a modernized, reliable electricity system. By moving forward with Bruce C, Ontario is making an important down-payment on our future. Timely investment across generation, transmission, and distribution to secure a high-capacity grid is critical to ensuring that businesses and residents have the stable power they need to thrive in a competitive global market.”
– Vince Brescia
President and CEO, Ontario Energy Association (OEA)

“Today’s announcement is good news for Ontario’s long-term energy planning. The pre-development work being advanced by Bruce Power, with support from the province, reflects a thoughtful and responsible approach to assessing new generation. It ensures the detailed analysis, community engagement, and planning needed to make informed decisions, while supporting jobs, strengthening communities, and maintaining a reliable and affordable electricity system as demand continues to rise.”
– Julie O’Driscoll
Executive Director, Ontario’s Nuclear Advantage

“Moving the Bruce C Nuclear Project forward is a defining moment for Ontario’s energy future. It reflects a clear focus on energy security and economic growth. We’re proud to support Ontario and Bruce Power with our world class nuclear expertise, a strong Canadian supply chain, and a proven track record of delivering large scale projects on time and on budget. This milestone reinforces Ontario’s role as a global nuclear leader and its long-term focus on clean, reliable power that will support growth and prosperity for decades to come.”
– Ian L. Edwards
President and CEO, AtkinsRéalis

“Ontario’s future growth depends on a stable, diversified, and reliable energy system. As we work to address the housing supply challenge, it is critical that energy planning keeps pace with the needs of growing communities. Investments that expand capacity and provide long-term certainty will help ensure the province can support new housing, economic development, and continued population growth.”
– Scott Andison
CEO, Ontario Home Builders’ Association

“The progression of the Bruce C Nuclear Project represents an important milestone in strengthening Ontario’s long term energy security. With decades of experience delivering complex nuclear projects, Aecon is proud to be playing a key role in delivering the next generation of nuclear infrastructure. Aecon applauds the Government of Ontario’s advancement of new nuclear with Bruce Power and welcomes progress on early development activities that will help enable reliable, affordable and emissions free electricity, support a strong domestic supply chain, and create high quality jobs for Ontarians.”
– Jean Louis Servranckx
President and CEO, Aecon Group Inc.

“We commend Minister Lecce and the Government of Ontario for their leadership in advancing nuclear energy to meet growing electricity demand while keeping power clean, reliable and affordable. Westinghouse stands ready to support this vision, create thousands of skilled jobs, strengthen Ontario’s industrial base, and reinforce the province’s position as a global leader in nuclear energy.”
– John Gorman
President, Westinghouse Canada

“Ontario’s electricity demand is expected to grow significantly in the coming decades, making long-term infrastructure planning essential. Advancing the Bruce C project and enabling early development work by Bruce Power represents an important step toward ensuring Ontario has the reliable, affordable, and low-emissions electricity needed to support economic growth and electrification. Canada’s nuclear sector has the expertise, workforce, and domestic supply chain required to support projects of this scale. Continued progress on new nuclear development helps strengthen energy security, support highly skilled jobs, and reinforce Canada’s position as a global nuclear leader.”
– George Christidis
President and CEO, Canadian Nuclear Association

“The advancement of Bruce C is a critical step in securing Ontario’s clean, reliable energy future. This project builds on Ontario’s nuclear leadership, supports thousands of skilled jobs, and strengthens the domestic supply chain required to meet rising electricity demand and keep power affordable for generations.”
– Spencer Fox
President, E.S. Fox Limited

“We’re energized by the strong progress being made toward the Bruce C expansion and the Ontario Government’s bold leadership in advancing nuclear capacity. We appreciate the province’s decisive action in moving this important project forward and their continued confidence in Ontario’s nuclear sector. As this work advances, BWXT remains committed to supporting the province’s long term energy goals in every way we can.”
– John MacQuarrie
President, BWXT Commercial Operations

“Today’s announcement demonstrates the Ontario government’s vision for the future—another step in positioning the province as a global leader in the large-scale nuclear power we need to support energy security and economic resilience for generations. What happens in the Clean Energy Frontier region of Bruce, Grey and Huron counties creates lasting benefits for communities across the province—and the Nuclear Innovation Institute is proud to be a part of this work.”
– Jessica Linthorne
President and CEO, Nuclear Innovation Institute

Additional Resources

Energy for Generations
Province Starts Pre-Development Work for New Nuclear Generation to Power Ontario’s Growth

Media Contacts

Noah Mawji
Minister Lecce’s Office
Noah.Mawji@ontario.ca

Robert Quartarone
Communications Branch
Robert.Quartarone@ontario.ca

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