BWXT inks $1B deal to build Nuclear steam generators

Key Takeaways:

• Ontario Power Generation has authorized contracts worth over $1 billion with BWXT Canada to manufacture 48 steam generators for the refurbishment of the Pickering Nuclear Generating Station and the reactor pressure vessel for the Darlington small modular reactor (SMR), the first on-grid SMR in the G7.
• The projects will create 350 jobs, including 250 skilled trades and engineering roles for the Pickering refurbishment and 100 additional jobs for the Darlington SMR.
• Over 80% of the spending will occur in Ontario, leveraging BWXT’s $80 million expansion of its Cambridge facility, which is expected to be completed by 2026.

The Whole Story:

Ontario has authorized Ontario Power Generation to sign contracts, valued at over $1 billion, with BWXT Canada to manufacture steam generators for the refurbishment of the Pickering Nuclear Generating Station, and the reactor pressure vessel for the first small modular reactor (SMR) in the G7 at Darlington.

“Ontario needs steady leadership to build out a clean and affordable energy future, by leveraging our province’s nuclear advantage,” said Stephen Lecce, Minister of Energy and Electrification. “As we expand and refurbish our nuclear fleet, we are announcing a major contract that creates 350 jobs with materials and components proudly stamped with ‘Made-in-Ontario.’ As Premier Ford continues to lead the fight against U.S. tariffs, our government will continue to build in Ontario and promote our technology and resources to the world.”

To support the refurbishment of the Pickering Nuclear Generating Station, BWXT will manufacture 48 new steam generators, which convert heat from the reactor into steam that drive turbines to generate electricity. This work, valued at $960 million over seven years, will create more than 250 highly skilled trades jobs, in addition to engineers and supporting staff.

BWXT will also procure all materials and manufacture the reactor pressure vessel for the Darlington New Nuclear Project, as part of the first on-grid SMR in the G7, supporting 100 additional jobs. BWXT is the first manufacturer in North America to begin this type of work for an SMR technology, furthering Ontario’s position as a global leader in nuclear innovation and production.

“The BWXT team stands ready to help our customers and Ontario create a future that provides abundant, emissions-free electricity, while increasing sustainable, good-paying jobs for Canada,” said John MacQuarrie, President, BWXT Commercial Operations. “We’ve been taking strategic steps to further meet the current and anticipated demand for nuclear power. These significant projects leverage BWXT’s extensive capabilities and specialized expertise in the delivery of large components for the domestic and global nuclear industry.”

This investment in Ontario nuclear manufacturing, with 80% of spending happening in the province, will leverage BWXT’s recent investment of $80 million to expand their Cambridge facility that began in 2024 and is expected to be completed by 2026. The facility is already one of the largest commercial manufacturing facilities in North America, currently employing 1,200 people.

“Premier Ford and Minister Lecce are leading the largest expansion of nuclear energy on the continent to help meet soaring energy demand, creating new jobs in Cambridge and across the province,” said Brian Riddell, MPP, for Cambridge. “I couldn’t be more pleased that 350 workers in Cambridge will help manufacture the key components we need to power our growing province and cement Ontario’s position as a global leader in nuclear innovation.”