Ontario Delivers Record-Setting Nuclear Refurbishment at Bruce Ahead of Schedule and Under Budget
Press Release
June 08, 2026
Bruce Power Unit 3 returned to grid seven months early with $150 million savings, generating clean, reliable electricity to power 800,000 homes and support 27,000 jobs
VAUGHAN — Today, the Ontario government announced the most successful completion and return to service of a nuclear unit in Ontario history, as Bruce Power’s Unit 3 reactor refurbishment was completed seven months ahead of schedule and under budget, saving ratepayers $150 million. The successful completion marks another major nuclear investment completed on-time and on-budget, delivering on Ontario’s plan to protect Ontario by securing reliable, affordable and clean energy for future generations.
Originally scheduled to return to service in January 2027, this early completion is the most expedient refurbishment in Ontario to date and reinforces the province’s position as a global leader in nuclear energy. The refurbished reactor will provide more than 800 megawatts (MW) of reliable, affordable and clean power for over 35 years, enough to power more than 800,000 homes. Bruce Power’s operations and Life-Extension Program supports approximately 27,000 direct and indirect Ontario jobs and injects $4 billion into the province’s economy each year.
“When Ontario successfully completed the world’s largest nuclear refurbishment at Darlington ahead of schedule and under budget, critics said it couldn’t be done again. Yet again, we are proving them wrong as we delivered a record-setting refurbishment under budget and seven months ahead of schedule,” said Stephen Lecce, Minister of Energy and Mines. “Ontario is cementing our position as a tier-one nuclear jurisdiction with a plan to put 150,000 Canadians to work, with ‘Made in Canada’ stamped on over 90 per cent of our spend. Backed by the best workers, engineers and tradespeople anywhere in the world, we’re delivering the reliable, affordable and clean power needed to keep our economy strong and more self reliant.”
The Unit 3 refurbishment replaced key components such as fuel channels, feeder tubes, and steam generators. This refurbishment also marked a significant step in nuclear innovation with the first robotic tools used ever on a reactor face to refurbish a CANDU reactor, as well as setting a record for calandria tube removal completing it 11 days ahead of schedule.
The Bruce Power Life-Extension Program will refurbish six reactors, extending the operating life of the Bruce Nuclear Generating Station through 2064. Once at full power, the refurbished reactor will generate enough electricity to power a city the size of Brampton, while helping Ontario to meet electricity demand forecasted to grow by up to 90 per cent by 2050.
The project also reinforces Ontario’s domestic nuclear supply chain, with 95 per cent of Bruce Power’s spending staying in Canada, further positioning the province as a world-class nuclear powerhouse. Ontario will continue to leverage its nuclear technology and expertise as other jurisdictions around the globe are rapidly turning to nuclear to support economic growth and energy independence.
“With Unit 3 now back in service and providing safe, clean, and reliable electricity to the province, we continue to demonstrate that large-scale nuclear projects in Ontario can be delivered safely, efficiently, and with real benefits for ratepayers,” said Eric Chassard, President and Chief Executive Officer of Bruce Power. “This achievement reflects the dedication of our workforce, our skilled trades partners, and the strength of our made-in-Canada nuclear industry.”
The Bruce Nuclear Generating Station is one of the largest operating nuclear sites in the world, and the ongoing refurbishment of six of its nuclear reactors furthers the province’s world-leading commitment to advancing nuclear power projects. Ontario’s nuclear expertise includes the successful refurbishment of the Darlington Nuclear Generating Station, advancement of Canada’s first large-scale nuclear build in 30 years with the Bruce C project making Bruce the largest nuclear generating facility in the on earth, construction of the first of four small modular reactors (SMRs) in the G7 at the Darlington site, advancement of new nuclear generation at the Wesleyville site, and the refurbishment of the Pickering Nuclear Generating Station.
Advancing the Bruce nuclear refurbishment project supports the government’s plan to protect Ontario and is a key part of Energy for Generations, the province’s first-ever long-term integrated plan to ensure the province has the reliable, affordable power it needs to have a secure supply of energy for the future and drive economic growth. This approach is further supported by the latest assessment from the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC), which derisked Ontario’s energy sector while neighboring economies try to advance planning to meet demand. The government’s integrated approach and record-setting investments in energy infrastructure are providing the certainty needed businesses and industry partners to invest confidently in Ontario’s future for generations to come.
Quick Facts
- Ontario’s nuclear industry supports around 80,000 good-paying jobs in communities across the province.
- Nuclear power currently provides 50 per cent of Ontario’s electricity supply and has positioned Ontario as one of the cleanest electricity grids in the world.
- Bruce Unit 3 is the second of six units undergoing refurbishment between 2020 and 2033 as part of Bruce Power’s Life‑Extension Program.
- The privately funded program to refurbish Units 3-8 will extend the life of the Bruce Power site through 2064.
- Bruce Unit 3 was removed from service March 2023. The Unit 4 MCR outage began in February of 2025 and the Unit 5 MCR is scheduled to begin in November 2026.
- The refurbished nuclear reactor units will target upwards of 7,000 MW of net peak output in the early-2030s.
Quotes
“Bruce Power has proven to be a trusted leader in Ontario’s nuclear sector. The early and under-budget completion of Unit 3 demonstrates that clean, reliable and affordable energy is foundational to building strong, resilient communities across the province. As Ontario’s electricity demand continues to grow, Bruce Power’s Life-Extension program proves that we have the capacity and confidence to drive long-term economic opportunity, innovation and success for generations to come.”
– Lisa Thompson
MPP for Huron-Bruce and Minister of Rural Affairs
“This is a great achievement for Bruce–Grey and a proud moment for our region. Bruce Power is a major employer and economic driver in our communities, and the completion of the Unit 3 refurbishment ahead of schedule and under budget is great news for local workers, families, and businesses. This milestone highlights the skill and dedication of the people who live and work here, while helping ensure Ontario has the reliable, clean electricity needed for the future. It’s encouraging to see this important project continue to move forward and deliver real benefits for our region and the province.”
– Paul Vickers
Member of Provincial Parliament, Bruce-Grey-Owen Sound
“Vaughan is a city that continues to grow, and with that growth comes the need for reliable, affordable and clean energy to support our economy and quality of life. The completion of Bruce Power’s Unit 3 refurbishment ahead of schedule and under budget is an important milestone that will help Ontario meet rising electricity demand while building a more sustainable future. Investments like this are critical to ensuring our province has the infrastructure needed for the years ahead. I want to thank Premier Doug Ford and Minister Stephen Lecce for their continued leadership and commitment to strengthening Ontario’s energy future.”
– Steven Del Duca
Mayor, City of Vaughan
“The successful completion of Bruce Power’s Unit 3 refurbishment is a reflection of the dedication, skill, and commitment of the thousands of tradespeople who worked safely and professionally to bring this project to completion. Local 2222 members are proud to have been part of a project that strengthens Ontario’s energy security, supports economic growth, and highlights the critical role skilled trades play in building and maintaining the infrastructure our province depends on. This achievement demonstrates the value of investing in both our energy future and the next generation of skilled workers.”
– Ryan Plante
Local Union Coordinator, United Brotherhood of Carpenters Local 2222
“The early completion of Unit 3 speaks to the how the Clean Energy Frontier and Bruce Power are delivering for Ontario. Bruce County is proud to be the home of Bruce Power and their continued advancements for reliable, affordable energy production that helps power Ontario’s future. We look forward to continuing the partnerships that allow us to play a foundational role in being world-leaders when it comes to nuclear technology and expertise.”
– Luke Charbonneau
Warden, Bruce County
“Ontario’s Manufacturers need a reliable, affordable, and clean electricity system to remain globally competitive. The successful completion of Bruce Power’s Unit 3 refurbishment ahead of schedule and under budget is a testament to the expertise, innovation, and dedication of the thousands of skilled workers and manufacturers who contribute to Ontario’s world-class nuclear supply chain. CME congratulates Bruce Power, the Government of Ontario, and all project partners on this significant milestone, which reinforces Ontario’s position as a world nuclear leader and creates lasting economic opportunities for communities across the province.”
– Dennis Darby
President and CEO, Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters (CME)
“The return to service of the Bruce Power Unit 3 ahead of schedule and under budget confirms again we have the skills, knowledge and innovation to deliver the complex infrastructure projects Canadians depend on. Our members who live near and work on the Bruce Power site are proud to contribute to this project that is so important to the local economy and to all of Ontario. Nuclear energy projects like the Bruce Power Life-Extension not only provide reliable, affordable and clean electricity, it provides opportunities for Youth, Women and Indigenous People to begin a lifelong career in the skilled trades.”
– John Wabb
Chairperson of National Executive Board, Canadian Union of Skilled Workers
“Unit 3 returning to service more than six months ahead of schedule is a clear example of what Ontario’s nuclear sector can deliver when government, the operator, and the domestic supply chain are aligned. For OCNI members across the province—engineering, fabrication, construction, digital, and skilled trades—this milestone reinforces Ontario’s reputation for executing complex nuclear work safely and to a high standard. It also strengthens confidence that refurbishment and new-build projects can be delivered on time to support Ontario’s plan for reliable, affordable, and clean power for decades to come.”
– Ivette Vera-Perez
President and CEO, Organization of Canadian Nuclear Organizations
“The successful return to service of Bruce Power’s Unit 3 ahead of schedule is a tremendous achievement for Ontario’s nuclear industry and a powerful demonstration of what can be accomplished through strong partnerships, innovation, and a highly skilled workforce. As Canada continues to invest in critical energy infrastructure, projects like this showcase the world-class expertise, training, and commitment to excellence that union tradespeople bring to some of the most complex construction and maintenance projects in the world. The success of Bruce Power’s Life-Extension Program is helping secure reliable, affordable, and clean energy for future generations while creating long-term career opportunities and economic benefits for communities across Ontario and Canada. We congratulate Bruce Power, its contractors, and the thousands of skilled workers whose dedication and professionalism continue to position Canada as a global leader in nuclear energy.”
– Mark Beardsworth
Executive Secretary-Treasurer, Millwright Regional Council
“Bruce Power’s successful completion and return to service of Unit 3, ahead of schedule and under budget, is a significant achievement for Ontario’s electricity sector. It reinforces Ontario’s position as a global leader in delivering complex nuclear projects and demonstrates the strength of the province’s world-class nuclear workforce and supply chain. As electricity demand continues to grow, investments in nuclear generation will play a critical role in providing the reliable, affordable, and emissions-free power needed to support Ontario’s economy for decades to come. The completion of Unit 3 marks another important milestone in Ontario’s efforts to secure a strong, resilient, and sustainable energy future. Congratulations to Bruce Power and its employees, contractors, and industry partners on this outstanding accomplishment.”
– Colin Anderson
President and CEO, Association of Power Producers of Ontario
“Skills Ontario recognizes and celebrates the return of Bruce Power’s Unit 3 to operations. This is an impressive achievement, made even more so given this was accomplished six months ahead of schedule. It is also important to recognize the skilled workers who also contributed to this wonderful success. This demonstrates how important these careers are to the future of Ontario and its economy. Bruce Power is a leading company in nuclear energy and we are proud to highlight skilled trades opportunities in this crucial sector. We look forward to more growth and success as we build the province’s electrical eco-structure.”
– Ian T. Howcroft
CEO, Skills Ontario
“The successful refurbishment of Bruce A Unit 3 as part of Bruce Power’s Major Component Replacement (MCR) project is a testament to the skills, precision, and dedication of the Building Trades workers who made it happen. Executing this project safely, ahead of schedule, exemplifies the longstanding collaborative partnership between Bruce Power, contractors, organized labour, and government. We look forward to achieving similar milestones in the future.”
– Marc Arsenault
Business Manager and Secretary-Treasurer, Provincial Building and Construction Trades Council of Ontario
“Aecon is proud to have played a central role in the successful Major Component Replacement (MCR) project for Bruce Power’s Unit 3 – another important milestone for Ontario’s nuclear industry, delivered safely, ahead of schedule and under budget. This achievement reflects the capability, discipline and commitment of Aecon and our partners AtkinsRéalis in Shoreline Power Group and Framatome in our Steam Generator Replacement Team. Working with Bruce Power, our teams demonstrated what can be achieved through strong collaboration and dedication to safe and high-quality execution. Together, these efforts reinforce Ontario’s global leadership in nuclear refurbishment and provide a proven model for driving economic growth while delivering reliable, affordable and clean energy for generations to come.”
– Jean-Louis Servranckx
President and CEO, Aecon
“Cameco is extremely pleased to play a role in supporting Bruce Power in the significant achievement of re-connecting Unit 3 to Ontario’s power grid. Our strategic partnership with Bruce Power ensures Cameco uranium and nuclear fuel for Unit 3 and all Bruce Power nuclear units will deliver secure, reliable, affordable, and clean energy for future generations. Congratulations to the entire Bruce Power team for once again demonstrating the remarkable capabilities of Canada’s nuclear sector. We commend the Ontario government for investing in the province’s nuclear power expansion and continuing to be a global clean energy leader.”
– Tim Gitzel
CEO, Cameco
“Bruce Power’s completion of the Unit 3 refurbishment ahead of schedule and under budget demonstrates the strength, expertise, and reliability of Ontario’s nuclear sector. As electricity demand continues to grow, milestones like this reinforce the critical role nuclear energy plays in providing the dependable power, economic benefits, and long-term energy security that Ontario families and businesses rely on.”
– Julie O’Driscoll
Executive Director, Ontario’s Nuclear Advantage
“Milestones like today’s are proof of an innovative nuclear sector—one that continuously finds smarter, more efficient ways to deliver results ahead of schedule and under budget. With tens of thousands of jobs and hundreds of companies at work in Ontario, that innovation translates into reliable, affordable electricity and economic resilience far beyond the Clean Energy Frontier region.”
– Jessica Linthorne
President and CEO, Nuclear Innovation Institute
“Congratulations to Bruce Power on this remarkable achievement. Unit 3’s completion six months ahead of schedule and under budget is proof that Canada builds large nuclear infrastructure projects on time and on budget. Behind that achievement is the exceptional skill of Ontario’s nuclear workforce and the strength of our domestic supply chain. The world is watching, and Canada is leading. With the right government support, our nuclear sector will continue to power homes and businesses, drive economic growth, and build a cleaner energy future for generations to come.”
– George Christidis
President and CEO, Canadian Nuclear Association
“EPSCA congratulates its members, all project partners, and the Government of Ontario on the successful completion of Bruce Power’s Unit 3 major component replacement. Delivering this complex project ahead of schedule and under budget is a testament to the skill, innovation, and commitment of Ontario’s unionized construction workforce. As the province’s electricity demand continues to grow, investments in major component replacements are critical to ensuring a reliable, affordable, and clean energy future while supporting thousands of highly skilled jobs and strengthening Ontario’s supply chain.”
– Caitlin Gascon
General Manager, Electrical Power Systems Construction Association
“The Society of United Professionals is proud of all the workers who managed this complex project. The successful completion of the Bruce Unit 3 refurbishment represents the hard work, ingenuity, and dedication of incredible team of nuclear professionals, including roughly 500 Society-represented engineers, specialists, coordinators, physicists, and front-line managers who ensured that the project arrived under budget and ahead of schedule. Ontario’s energy professionals continue to deliver results, and this project once again shows that we are prepared to tackle the major work ahead as we dramatically expand our nuclear infrastructure.”
– Rebecca Caron
President, Society of United Professionals
“Congratulations to Bruce Power, and to the many skilled workers who played such a key role in this achievement. Returning this unit to service ahead of schedule – along with Ontario Power Generation’s (OPG) early, under-budget completion of Darlington Refurbishment – shows how, through strong planning, collaboration, and shared expertise, our companies are helping ensure a reliable and affordable energy future for Ontarians.”
– Nicolle Butcher
President and CEO, Ontario Power Generation
“I would like to congratulate Minister Lecce for being a strong supporter of investment in our electricity system and Bruce Power for the remarkable accomplishment of completing the refurbishment ahead of schedule and under budget. This goes a long way to win public support for more nuclear power, clean, reliable, and affordable electrical power made here in Ontario. Our team at Northern Transformer is very proud of our contribution to this successful achievement and looks forward to continue building a mutually beneficial long-term relationship.”
– Giovanni Marcelli
Chairman of the Board, Northern Transformer Corporation
“The successful completion of Bruce Power’s Unit 3 refurbishment ahead of schedule and under budget is a tremendous achievement for Ontario’s nuclear sector and the skilled workers who made it possible. This milestone demonstrates that Ontario continues to lead the world in building the reliable, affordable, and clean energy infrastructure needed to power our future. Projects like the Bruce Power Life-Extension Program create thousands of good-paying jobs, strengthen local economies, and support a made-in-Ontario nuclear supply chain that is second to none. As electricity demand continues to grow, investments in nuclear energy are investments in energy security, economic competitiveness, and long-term prosperity. LiUNA is proud of the role our members play in building and maintaining the infrastructure that keeps Ontario resilient, and the steadfast collaboration between labour, industry and government to power us forward.”
– Joe Mancinelli
International Vice President and Canadian Director, LiUNA
“Through our partnership with Bruce Power, Brotech has been proud to support this important achievement for Ontario’s nuclear supply chain. We look forward to so many more milestones in the coming decades of growth for the nuclear industry.”
– Jerome Horowitz
President, Brotech Precision CNC Inc.
“Canada’s Nuclear Workers continue to demonstrate their expertise with the Return To Service of Bruce Unit 3 following a very successful refurbishment. The proven strengths of Bruce Power, Canada’s entire nuclear supply chain and the tens of thousands of people they employ validate the wisdom of Ontario’s investment in nuclear energy. Congratulations to everyone involved.”
– Bob Walker
National Director, Canadian Nuclear Workers’ Council
“BWXT is proud to have contributed to the successful outcome of the Unit 3 Major Component Replacement project, including supply of major components such as steam generators, heat exchangers, reactor components, as well as plant improvement projects, leveraging the skill and dedication our talented workforce. With Bruce Power’s leadership, we’re showing together with others in our industry what Ontario’s nuclear supply chain can accomplish in advancing a clean energy future.”
– John MacQuarrie
President, Commercial Operations, BWXT
“E.S. Fox Limited is proud to support Bruce Power in safely returning Unit 3 to service—another milestone in delivering reliable, clean energy for Ontario. This achievement reflects the strength of our partnership and the dedication of every team member involved.”
– Spencer Fox
President, E.S. Fox Limited
“The early completion of Bruce Power’s Unit 3 refurbishment is a strong demonstration of the depth, capability and professionalism of Ontario’s skilled trades workforce. Projects of this complexity depend on highly trained tradespeople who bring precision, safety and innovation to every stage of the work—from advanced manufacturing and installation to commissioning. This milestone reinforces Ontario’s position as a global leader in nuclear energy and highlights the critical role skilled trades play in delivering the infrastructure that powers our economy. Continued investment in trades training and certification will be essential to sustaining this momentum and ensuring Ontario has the workforce needed to meet growing energy demands.”
– Candice White
CEO and Registrar, Skilled Trades Ontario
“Kinectrics extends our congratulations to Bruce Power on the successful restart of Unit 3—an outstanding achievement delivered ahead of schedule and under budget. This milestone reflects the strength of Ontario’s world-class nuclear supply chain, the power of innovation & collaboration, and a shared commitment to safety and excellence. As a proud partner, Kinectrics is honoured to support Bruce Power’s Life-Extension Program, which is securing reliable, affordable, and clean electricity for future generations while creating jobs and driving economic growth across the province.”
– John D’Angelo
President, Kinectrics Inc.
“The early return to service of Bruce Power Unit 3 marks a significant milestone for Ontario’s electricity system. Originally scheduled for January 2027, its earlier availability will help support grid reliability for Ontarians during peak summer demand. Congratulations to Bruce Power for successfully completing the refurbishment of Unit 3.”
– Lesley Gallinger
President and CEO, Independent Electricity System Operator
“The Heat and Frost Insulators, Local 95, commend Minister Lecce and the Government of Ontario on the successful completion of Bruce Power’s Unit 3 reactor refurbishment ahead of schedule and under budget. This milestone reflects the expertise of Ontario’s skilled trades workforce and reinforces the province’s leadership in nuclear energy. As mechanical insulators, we are proud to support projects that improve energy efficiency, reduce emissions, and strengthen the long-term reliability of critical infrastructure, helping deliver reliable, affordable, and clean energy for future generations.”
– David Gardner
Business Manager, Insulators, Local 95
“The early completion of Bruce Power’s Unit 3 is something every SPEA member is proud of. This milestone is the direct result of decades of Canadian taxpayer investment in CANDU technology and the world-class engineers, technical and support staff who brought it to life. As the world turns to nuclear, they are turning to us.”
– Mark Chudak
President, Society of Professional Engineers and Associates, SPEA (Unifor Local 7474)
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