Ontario has reached a significant milestone in the construction of the G7’s first small modular reactor, with the installation of a massive foundation component at the Darlington nuclear site.
The province says a 2.1 million pound basemat module has been successfully lifted and placed at the site in Clarington, marking the first foundation for a new nuclear reactor in Ontario in more than 30 years.
The Darlington New Nuclear Project is located just west of Northumberland County and is expected to play a key role in meeting the province’s future energy needs.
Once complete, the four planned small modular reactors will generate about 1,200 megawatts of electricity, enough to power approximately 1.2 million homes.
Officials say the project is also expected to deliver significant economic benefits.
More than 100 Canadian companies are now involved in the supply chain, including many based in Ontario, with the province aiming to keep the majority of project spending within Canada.
The government says construction of the reactors will create approximately 18,000 jobs, while long term operations are expected to support thousands of skilled positions for decades.
The project is part of Ontario’s broader energy strategy, aimed at ensuring reliable and affordable electricity while supporting economic growth and reducing emissions.
Officials say the installation of the basemat marks a major step forward, allowing construction to move ahead on the reactor structure and internal systems.
Further updates are expected as work continues on what is being described as a first of its kind nuclear project for Canada and the G7.
(Written by: Joseph Goden)
