The Province of Ontario is going all in on a massive nuclear power project in Northumberland County.
The government has asked Ontario Power Generation to explore a new generation of nuclear energy at their Wesleyville site, just west of Port Hope.
Energy Minister Stephen Lecce says demand in the province is set to increase by 75 per cent in the next 25 years.
Lecce says early assessments by OPG indicate the project in Northumberland could host up to 10,000 megawatts, the power equivalent to 10 million homes.
The Conference Board of Canada indicates potential nuclear development in Port Hope would contribute more than a quarter of a trillion dollars to Ontario’s GDP over an estimated 95 year project life.
It would create about 1,700 jobs and support more than 10,500 jobs in the province.
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The Ontario government has asked Ontario Power Generation (OPG) to explore opportunities for new nuclear energy generation at their Wesleyville site, following expressions of interest from the Municipality of Port Hope and the Williams Treaties First Nations (WTFNs). OPG will work with local communities to determine support as the province seeks to expand generation to meet the rising demand for electricity.
“With energy demand in Ontario set to increase by 75 per cent by 2050, we are doing the early engagement and development work now that will ensure the province has options to meet that growing demand,” said Stephen Lecce, Minister of Energy and Electrification. “I’m excited to be continuing these conversations with Indigenous and municipal leaders to explore options for new nuclear generation at the Wesleyville site, including new good-paying jobs and other associated benefits.”
The Wesleyville site, which is maintained by OPG, located near existing transmission, road, and railway infrastructure, and already zoned for new electricity generation, is well-suited to support a large new nuclear site. Based on early assessments by OPG, this site could host up to 10,000 megawatts (MW) of new nuclear generation, which could power the equivalent of 10 million homes.
According to the Conference Board of Canada, a potential nuclear development in Port Hope would also contribute $235 billion to Ontario’s GDP over an estimated 95-year project life, which includes design, construction, operation, and maintenance. It would also support 10,500 jobs across Ontario, including 1,700 new good-paying jobs in Port Hope, representing an average 15 to 20 per cent boost to overall employment levels in the local area.
Following active engagement with community leaders by Minister Lecce and OPG, the Council of the Municipality of Port Hope unanimously passed a motion on December 17, 2024, endorsing continued engagement with OPG and the Ministry of Energy and Electrification on the potential for new energy generation at the Wesleyville Site.
To support continued engagement, the Ontario government announced that OPG will provide the WTFNs with capacity funding and an opportunity for equity participation in any generation project. The province also announced immediate funding of $1 million for the Municipality of Port Hope to support early growth readiness, assessment of planning and infrastructure requirements, and to meet consultation requirements. As part of a milestone-based process, leading toward the development of a Host Municipal Agreement, Port Hope could also access up to $30 million of funding for associated infrastructure investments and to attract co-located industries.
The potential nuclear build would also allow local communities to benefit from additional co-located industry and supply chain spending. The Municipality of Port Hope would also benefit from increased municipal property taxes from the station, which according to the Conference Board of Canada are estimated to be $10.5 million annually.
“Ontario needs more affordable and reliable energy to meet soaring demand, and I am excited to work with our municipal and Indigenous leaders to explore how we meet that challenge, while creating new jobs and opportunities right here in Port Hope,” said David Piccini, MPP for Northumberland-Peterborough South. “New energy generation represents an incredible opportunity for our region, and I am committed to working closely with Premier Ford and Minister Lecce to ensure our community is supported as this work advances – including immediate funding of $1 million for Port Hope.”
Developing options for new energy generation is just one part of Ontario’s Affordable Energy Future, the government’s vision as it plans for rising energy demand, which includes:
- Energy Planning – Developing the province’s first integrated energy plan, including all energy resources, such as electricity, natural gas, and other fuels to ensure the province’s energy needs are met in a coordinated and long-term manner.
- Nuclear Energy – Advancing clean, reliable, and affordable nuclear power through pre-development work at Bruce Power on the province’s first large-scale nuclear build in 30 years, four small modular reactors at Darlington and supporting OPG’s plan for refurbishing the Pickering Nuclear Generation Station.
- New Transmission Infrastructure – Designating and prioritizing transmission lines in Southwestern, Northeastern and Eastern Ontario that will power job creation, including EV and EV battery manufacturing and clean steel production.
- Keeping Costs Down – Launching new energy efficiency programs on January 1, 2025, which build on the government’s $342 million expansion of existing energy efficiency programs which are helping families and businesses reduce their electricity usage and save money on their energy bills.
- Additional Competitive Procurements – Launching the largest competitive procurement of clean energy resources in the province’s history in addition to successfully re-contracting existing capacity resources at about a 30 per cent discount.
Quick Facts
- According to Ontario’s Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO), the province’s demand for electricity is forecast to increase by 75 per cent by 2050, the equivalent of adding four and a half cities the size of Toronto to the grid.
- In order to advance new nuclear generation, OPG will be required to complete regulatory approvals, including through an impact assessment. OPG will begin an impact assessment as early as 2025 to maintain optionality for the site long-term, recognizing the current federal process could take several years.
- In addition to Indigenous equity participation in a potential generation project, there will also be opportunities for Indigenous businesses to participate in procurement processes.
- Nuclear provides more than half of all of Ontario’s electricity and emits no greenhouse gasses.
- Ontario’s nuclear industry supports around 80,000 good-paying jobs in communities across the province.
Quotes
“OPG is pleased to be working with the Williams Treaties First Nations and the Municipality of Port Hope to explore the potential for new nuclear power generation at our Wesleyville site. We are committed to a transparent, thorough process with many opportunities for input, and to building strong relationships and partnerships with host communities, neighbours and Indigenous Nations on whose traditional territory we operate.”
– Nicolle Butcher
President and CEO, OPG
“Ontario’s growing energy demand calls for forward-thinking solutions, and this initiative demonstrates our government’s commitment to both a sustainable energy future and economic growth. With the collaboration of local municipalities and Indigenous communities, we are exploring new nuclear generation options at the Wesleyville site—ensuring Ontario remains a leader in clean energy, job creation and driving prosperity.”
– Lorne Coe
MPP, Whitby, and Parliamentary Assistant to the Premier
“I am pleased that our government is working alongside our communities and taking proactive steps to meet the growing demand for clean energy production. This investment will continue to support our local communities and benefit all Ontarians.”
– Laurie Scott
MPP, Haliburton-Kawartha Lakes-Brock
“As Ontario continues to grow, it’s crucial that we invest in the future of our energy infrastructure to keep up with rising demand. This is not just about meeting the needs of tomorrow—it’s about creating well-paying jobs and ensuring that communities across Ontario, including Port Hope, have access to reliable, clean energy. By exploring new nuclear energy options, we’re taking important steps to strengthen our grid, support local economies, and provide affordable power for Ajax and across Ontario.”
– Patrice Barnes
MPP, Ajax
“This initiative is a testament to Ontario’s vision for developing clean, reliable, and affordable energy while creating meaningful opportunities for economic growth and job creation for the people of Port Hope, the Williams Treaties First Nations and beyond. By working hand in hand with local communities, we are not only advancing innovative energy solutions but also strengthening partnerships that reflect the shared values of cooperation and progress that have built our great province. The potential for this project to generate thousands of good-paying jobs and bring significant economic benefits is a game-changer for our region, and I look forward to seeing the positive impact it will have for decades to come.”
– Todd McCarthy
MPP, Durham
“The Wesleyville site presents an important opportunity for the Municipality of Port Hope, Williams Treaties First Nations, Ontario Power Generation, and the Province of Ontario to explore clean energy solutions that address growing energy demands while supporting economic development and sustainability goals. We look forward to engagement with our community and partners to carefully evaluate the potential benefits of this initiative, including infrastructure improvements, job creation, and enhanced municipal revenues, as well as any potential challenges or impacts.”
– Olena Hankivsky
Mayor, Municipality of Port Hope
“On behalf of nuclear communities across Canada, I applaud Port Hope, the Ontario government, and OPG for exploring new nuclear generation opportunities in Wesleyville. Engaging the community at the outset is the kind of collaboration that builds proud and enthusiastic nuclear host communities. We’ve got a huge task ahead of us to meet Ontario’s growing electricity needs, but there are incredible opportunities that come with it.”
– Adrian Foster
Chair of the Canadian Association of Nuclear Host Communities (CANHC), and Mayor of the Municipality of Clarington
“Exploring opportunities for new nuclear generation at the Wesleyville site presents a tremendous opportunity for our community, the region and province. Beyond creating high-quality jobs and attracting innovative investments, this initiative also has the potential to pave the way for critical infrastructure improvements that are needed and will benefit all. By addressing these needs alongside energy development, Port Hope can continue to further advance their role in providing clean, reliable power while strengthening the foundations of our local economy and enhancing the quality of life for businesses and families alike. The Port Hope & District Chamber of Commerce fully supports any initiatives that will help the community thrive and look forward to working with the Municipality to continue researching the potentials.”
– Brenda Whitehead
CEO, Port Hope and District Chamber of Commerce
“The Ontario government’s launch of new nuclear energy generation exploration at the Wesleyville site with OPG presents a significant opportunity to advance Canada’s nuclear capacity while bringing tremendous economic benefits to the Port Hope area and the Williams Treaty First Nations. The significant funding commitment ensures that these communities are well-prepared not just to consult but also to engage and participate in shaping this pivotal project. As advocates for Canada’s nuclear supply chain, OCNI is eager to support this new nuclear generation initiative and collaborate with its partners, such as OPG, to realize the potential of Wesleyville in meeting Canada’s clean energy goals.”
– Brian Fehrenbach
Interim President and CEO, Organization of Canadian Nuclear Industries (OCNI)
“Durham Region is proud to be the Clean Energy Capital of Canada, at the forefront of the clean energy transition. We know that electrification is the future; that large amounts of electricity will be needed to power this transition, new technologies and growing energy demands. It’s great to see the province investing in new nuclear projects that will power Ontario’s economy for generations to come.”
– John Henry
Regional Chair and Chief Executive Officer, Regional Municipality of Durham
“The Society applauds the Ontario government for launching the community engagement process with the residents of the Port Hope region and the Williams Treaties First Nations, which will allow residents to learn about the benefits of being a nuclear host community. Ontario’s existing nuclear host communities in Durham and Bruce Counties know well the local economic benefit, the good jobs, and the boost to local small businesses that come with nuclear generation which is why they are some of some of the best informed and strongest advocates for nuclear power. A meaningful, consent-based engagement process is a crucial first step for residents of Port Hope and Williams Treaty Nations to enjoy those same benefits. The Society looks forward to being an active partner in the engagement process as we all work towards the expansion of Ontario’s emissions-free electricity grid.”
– Rebecca Caron
President, Society of United Professionals
“The Power Workers’ Union fully supports the Government of Ontario and OPG working with the municipality of Port Hope to continue conversations and ensure a transparent and thorough process about new nuclear generation at the Wesleyville site. Building out Ontario’s nuclear program is a necessary part of the effort to meet the province’s soaring demand for clean, reliable, baseload electricity, which is forecast to increase by at least 75% by 2050.”
– Jeff Parnell
President, Power Workers’ Union
“The Provincial Building and Construction Trades Council of Ontario is proud of the work done by Ontario’s skilled trades workforce to build Ontario’s energy infrastructure. We support ongoing community consultation to ensure support for new nuclear generation at the Wesleyville site and the hiring of local workers. Nuclear power is an essential part of the energy mix to meet the province’s long-term plans to create good jobs and grow the economy with clean, reliable, and affordable electricity and the Building Trades are proud to be a part of that.””
– James Hogarth
President of the Provincial Building and Construction Trades Council of Ontario
