A new Ontario nuclear agreement tied to small modular reactors could create future opportunities for workers and businesses in Northumberland County as the province continues to expand its nuclear industry in the region.
The province announced a partnership between GE Vernova Hitachi Nuclear Energy and Canadian manufacturer Velan to explore supplying key safety components for small modular reactor projects in Europe.
Velan also plans to build a new manufacturing facility in neighbouring Durham Region to support rising global demand for SMR technology.
While the plant will be based outside Northumberland, provincial officials say the broader eastern Ontario supply chain including Northumberland businesses that already support manufacturing and skilled trades in the region.
The announcement comes as Ontario advances construction of four SMRs at the Darlington nuclear site in Clarington, a project expected to anchor the province’s growing nuclear sector.
Officials say the expansion of SMR projects internationally could translate into more contracts for Ontario suppliers as countries in Europe move ahead with new nuclear developments.
The province estimates each reactor project supported through the supply chain could generate up to $70 million in Ontario-linked investment for components and manufacturing.
(Written by: Branden Rushton)
