On May 8, 2025, Ontario took a significant step by initiating the construction of its first small modular reactor (SMR) at the Darlington site, east of Toronto. This project, led by Ontario Power Generation (OPG) in partnership with GE Hitachi Nuclear Energy, marks a first in the Western world for this type of technology.
The BWRX-300 reactor, with a capacity of 300 megawatts, is expected to power approximately 300,000 homes by 2030. This initiative is part of a broader plan to build four SMRs at the site, with a total estimated cost of 21 billion Canadian dollars. The project addresses a growing energy demand, projected to increase by 75% by 2050, while contributing to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.
The Ontario government highlights that this project will create up to 18,000 jobs and boost the local economy, with over 80 Ontario-based companies involved. This development positions Canada as a global leader in next-generation nuclear technology.
