Ontario Power Generation (OPG) has received approval to proceed with the construction of the Darlington New Nuclear Project—the first new nuclear build in Ontario in over three decades and the first commercial, grid-scale Small Modular Reactor (SMR) in North America. The GE Hitachi BWRX-300 SMR will have a capacity of 300 megawatts, enough to power approximately 300,000 homes, and is scheduled to be in service by 2030.
Nicolle Butcher, President and CEO of OPG, hailed the moment as historic, stating:
“This made-in-Ontario project will support local businesses, create jobs for Ontarians, and stimulate economic growth. OPG is proud to lead this first-of-a-kind initiative. With our province’s strong nuclear supply chain and our proven track record—especially with the Darlington Refurbishment—we are confident in delivering this SMR on time and on budget.”
The project has received a CAD20.9 billion (USD15 billion) commitment from the Ontario government, following the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission’s issuance of a Licence to Construct in April.
Ontario’s Ministry of Energy and Mines emphasized the project’s economic impact, projecting the creation of up to 18,000 jobs and an annual economic boost of CAD500 million. Over a 65-year span, the construction, operation, and maintenance of four SMR units are expected to contribute CAD38.5 billion to Canada’s GDP. The province and OPG have agreed that 80% of project spending will be allocated to Ontario-based companies.
Stephen Lecce, Minister of Energy and Mines, added:
“This is a historic day for Canada. As we launch construction on the G7’s first small modular reactor, we’re building a nation-shaping project in Ontario—led by Canadian workers using Canadian steel, concrete, and materials to deliver the reliable, clean energy needed to power our economy and future.”
The Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO) of Ontario backed the Darlington New Nuclear Project as the best cost-risk solution among non-emitting generation options to meet the province’s growing energy demand.
Lisa McBride, Country Leader for GE Vernova Hitachi SMR Canada, said:
“This is a proud moment for Ontario and for GE Vernova Hitachi as we transition from vision to reality. With dozens of Ontario-based suppliers involved, we’re not just building a reactor—we’re creating thousands of high-quality jobs, driving community investment, and reinforcing Ontario’s leadership in clean energy innovation. This project positions our province as a global hub for next-gen nuclear technology and opens export opportunities worldwide.”