Pickering nuclear reactors start coming off-line for massive refurbishment

Ontario's Pickering Nuclear Generating Station is initiating a massive refurbishment of four of its reactors, as the province seeks to bolster its electricity supply through nuclear power. Premier Doug Ford's government is investing a staggering $26.8 billion in the project, which is expected to extend the plant's operational life by up to 38 years and generate enough electricity to power 2.2 million homes.

The refurbishment work will commence in January and will render the reactors inoperable for approximately a decade. During this period, 1,520 fuel channels and 48 boilers will be replaced, and a 1.5-kilometre deep-water intake will be constructed. Energy Minister Stephen Lecce emphasizes that the endeavor will create 30,500 jobs, with the majority of the expenditures remaining within Ontario.

However, Environmental Defence has raised concerns that the prolonged absence of Pickering's reactors may exacerbate the province's reliance on natural gas for electricity generation, potentially increasing greenhouse gas emissions.