Ontario Takes the Lead in G7 with First Small Modular Reactor Development

March 10, 2026

Ontario is making history by becoming the first in the G7 to construct a Small Modular Reactor (SMR). This significant advancement in nuclear energy is part of the province’s ambitious plan to meet soaring electricity demands and achieve its clean energy goals.

Key Takeaways

Ontario is spearheading the G7 in the development of the first Small Modular Reactor (SMR).
The province aims to significantly expand its nuclear power capacity to meet a projected doubling of electricity demand within 25 years.
This expansion is driven by the transition to electric vehicles and the push for industrial decarbonization.
The government is considering refurbishing existing nuclear facilities, including the Pickering Nuclear Generating Station.

Powering Ontario’s Future

Ontario is positioning itself at the forefront of nuclear energy innovation, with plans to construct the G7’s first Small Modular Reactor (SMR). This initiative is a cornerstone of the province’s strategy to address a projected doubling of electricity demand over the next quarter-century. Factors such as the automotive sector’s shift to electric vehicles and broader industrial decarbonization efforts are fueling this surge in energy needs.

Expanding Nuclear Capacity

The provincial government has outlined a comprehensive plan to bolster its nuclear power generation. This includes proposals to nearly double output at the Bruce Power facility, already the world’s largest nuclear generating station. Furthermore, plans are in motion to add three more SMRs to the one already underway at the Darlington site, which collectively could power 1.2 million homes.

Strategic Investments and Considerations

Ontario Power Generation (OPG) has submitted a feasibility study regarding the refurbishment of the Pickering Nuclear Generating Station, Canada’s oldest operating nuclear plant. Energy Minister Todd Smith emphasized the critical role of nuclear power in providing reliable, emissions-free baseload electricity, stating its necessity for meeting clean energy targets.

The federal government also supports this direction, with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau acknowledging the need for increased nuclear power to support industrial growth. Investment tax credits are being offered for the construction of emissions-free electricity systems, including nuclear facilities.

Economic and Environmental Impact

Ontario’s existing nuclear infrastructure, which currently supplies over half of the province’s electricity, is seen as a key factor in attracting major international automakers like Volkswagen and Stellantis for electric vehicle manufacturing. The province’s commitment to an ultra-low-carbon power jurisdiction is a significant draw for such investments.

Challenges and Alternatives

While the province is heavily investing in nuclear, some experts raise concerns about the high costs and long-term risks associated with such a significant nuclear expansion. Professor Mark Winfield of York University suggests that alternative clean energy solutions should be more thoroughly considered, noting that decisions made now will have implications for a century.

The Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO) estimates that Ontario will need to invest approximately $400 billion by 2050 to meet future electricity demands and achieve a carbon-neutral grid, with nuclear power playing a substantial role in this plan.

The Road Ahead

The next crucial decision point involves the potential refurbishment of four reactor units at the Pickering plant. OPG is currently undertaking a significant refurbishment project at the Darlington plant, gaining valuable expertise that could be applied to Pickering. If approved, the Pickering refurbishment proposal would require review and approval from the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission.