Powering Ontario

Mediaplanet sat down with Ontario Minister of Energy, Bob Chiarelli, to discuss the bright future of nuclear energy in Ontario and nationwide.

Mediaplanet What should Ontarians know about the role that nuclear energy plays in their energy mix?

Bob Chiarelli Amajor advantage of Ontario’s supply mix is the diversity of our generation: 90 percent of the gridconnected power generated in Ontario in 2014 came from emissions-free sources of energy such as water, nuclear, and renewables. Nuclear provided approximately 60 percent of our round-the-clock, year-round energy in 2014.

The refurbishment of Ontario’s nuclear fleet, for example, represents a multi-billion-dollar investment and our continued- support of the province’s nuclear supply chain and o perations for decades to come. Refurbished nuclear is one of the most cost-effective options in the long-term planning of the electricity system, and is creating a strong foundation where Ontario’s nuclear suppliers are in a strong position to market their products and services to a global nuclear industry that could reach over 500 reactors by 2030.

MP Ontario is home to world-class nuclear innovation and know-how. What strides can be made to help develop and keep top talent?

BC We have made important investments in nuclear generation, which continues to be the backbone of Ontario’s supply, and have been successful in exporting Canadian technology such as the CANDU reactor around the world to countries including Argentina, China, India, Pakistan, Romania, and South Korea. Nuclear power is also part of Canada’s science and innovation advantage, involving more than 30 universities and six major research centres, many of them in Ontario. Ontario strongly supports a long-term strategy that continues to ensure that Canada maintains its national capability and global recognition as a leader in nuclear innovation.

Earlier this year, my ministry launched two requests for bids on studies on advanced nuclear opportunities: one on small modular reactors, and one on the recycling of used CANDU fuel. We are currently evaluating the bids and look forward to seeing the reports.

MP A commitment has been made to refurbish a number of the province’s existing reactors. What does this mean for Ontario?

BC Ontario will ensure a reliable supply of electricity by proceeding with the refurbishment of the province’s existing nuclear fleet. The refurbishment of units at the Bruce and Darlington generating stations is expected to begin in 2016 and has the potential to renew 8,500 MWover16years.

Ontario’s nuclear industry creates jobs and growth across many sectors. The nuclear industry generates $2.5 billion in direct and secondary economic activity in Ontario annually. An additional 9,000 jobs are expected to be created as a result of the proposed refurbishment, bringing the total number of people employed in Ontario’s nuclear energy sector to approximately 25,000.