Ontario is putting nearly $1.9 million toward strengthening the province’s nuclear supply chain as plans advance for potential new nuclear generation at Wesleyville.
The province says the investment will help businesses and workers prepare for a major expansion of the nuclear sector, while protecting jobs and reducing exposure to global economic uncertainty and U.S. tariffs.
Northumberland—Peterborough South MPP and Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development Minister David Piccini says Ontario is building the workforce and industrial capacity needed to expand its energy sector.
He says developing more of the necessary equipment, skills and expertise within Ontario will create well-paying jobs and strengthen the province’s economy.
Ontario’s nuclear industry is expected to see substantial growth in the coming years, with refurbishment projects at the Darlington and Bruce nuclear stations, construction of a grid-scale Small Modular Reactor at Darlington, and new nuclear generation opportunities being explored at Wesleyville and Bruce C.
Ontario says its nuclear plans could support as many as 150,000 workers and contribute more than $800 billion in additional GDP, while providing reliable electricity for the province’s economy.
Energy and Mines Minister Stephen Lecce says Ontario is responding to economic pressure from the United States by accelerating its nuclear plans.
He says nuclear energy is largely produced and supplied within Canada and can support jobs for generations.
The province says growing demand for workers, equipment and expertise means planning is needed now to ensure projects can be delivered efficiently.
The OCNI project will be completed in three phases. It will first map Ontario’s nuclear suppliers, workforce and related industries, then identify gaps in manufacturing, engineering and labour capacity.
The final phase will recommend ways to expand Ontario’s supplier base, increase local content, strengthen training and workforce pathways, support Indigenous participation and regional economic opportunities, improve supply-chain resilience and help Ontario companies pursue nuclear contracts at home and abroad.
(Richard Evans)
