Pickering Nuclear Station Operation Extended to 2026

The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission has approved the continued operation of the Pickering Nuclear Generating Station's "B" units until December 2026. This decision allows Ontario Power Generation to maintain the facility's production of 2,000 megawatts of power, which is sufficient to supply electricity to approximately two million homes. The Pickering station employs around 4,500 workers and supports about 7,500 jobs across Ontario.

In 2023, the station recorded its highest generation output since 2019, marking its second-highest output ever as a six-unit station. The government's support for the station's operation is part of Ontario's broader energy strategy, which includes plans to refurbish the "B" units (units 5-8) at the Pickering facility. This refurbishment is intended to extend the operational life of the units and ensure the continued supply of non-emitting power.

The decision to extend the station's operation follows a review by Ontario Power Generation and an application to amend the operating license, submitted in June 2023. The approval reflects the station's track record of producing reliable and affordable electricity, as well as its role in generating medical isotopes used in cancer treatment.