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OPG rounds out its dream team to build North America’s first SMR

February 10, 2023 – Ontario Power Generation has added to its roster of partners to construct North America’s first small modular reactor (SMR) at the Darlington New Nuclear Project site.

OPG had already selected GE Hitachi Nuclear Energy as its technology development partner. Joining the ranks now are SNC-Lavalin and Aecon.

“Canada was the second country in the world to ever generate commercial nuclear power,” said Joe St. Julian, president, Nuclear, SNC-Lavalin. “Together with our alliance partners, we will ensure Canada again leads the way to advance an exciting new frontier in nuclear energy.”

Under terms of the agreement, GE Hitachi, SNC-Lavalin, Aecon, and OPG will provide a diverse range of expertise and services as part of an integrated project delivery model to develop, engineer and construct a BWRX-300 SMR, with construction to be complete by late 2028.

“Working with these three companies, OPG is leveraging decades of nuclear energy and large project experience to deliver much-needed new, reliable electricity generation to Ontarians,” said Ken Hartwick, OPG president & CEO.

All parties will manage the project as an integrated team, says OPG, and each company will play a specific role in project delivery:

• As the licence-holder, OPG will maintain overall responsibility for the project, including operator training, commissioning, Indigenous engagement, stakeholder outreach and oversight.

• As technology developer, GE Hitachi is responsible for design, procurement of major components, and engineering and support.

• SNC-Lavalin will serve as architect-engineer, providing design, engineering and procurement support.

• As the constructor, Aecon will provide construction planning and execution.

Site preparation is underway at the Darlington site, reports OPG, which has applied to the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission for a Licence to Construct.