Ontario Power Generation (OPG), in partnership with GE Vernova and Hitachi Nuclear Energy (GVH), has received approval for construction from the Province of Ontario to begin full-scale construction of a small modular reactor (SMR) at the Darlington New Nuclear Project.
This marks a global first for the BWRX-300 reactor model and a major milestone in the advancement of modular nuclear technology. Construction of the first unit is scheduled to be completed by the end of the decade, with a total of four reactors planned for the site.
Darlington New Nuclear Project Overview
Located at the existing Darlington nuclear site, the new development will feature up to four BWRX-300 SMRs, starting with the initial unit, which now has full provincial and regulatory approval. The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) issued OPG a licence to construct the first reactor in April, following completion of early site preparation activities.
The project is being delivered in collaboration with GVH, engineering and construction firm AtkinsRéalis, and a Joint Venture between Aecon and Kiewit as the balance of plant contractors under an Integrated Project Delivery / Alliance model. Ontario’s domestic supply chain is expected to play a significant role in the execution of the project, with a focus on local manufacturing and skilled labor engagement.
BWRX-300 Small Nuclear Reactor - Details
The BWRX-300 is a 300-megawatt small modular reactor that builds on GE’s legacy of boiling water reactor (BWR) technology. As a 10th-generation design, it incorporates enhancements in passive safety, reduced complexity, and modular construction techniques. These features are intended to simplify deployment and lower capital costs relative to traditional nuclear reactors.
The design benefits from decades of real-world BWR experience and is being delivered through a standardized model that emphasizes repeatability and cross-border regulatory alignment. GVH has worked closely with regulators in both Canada and the U.S. to develop a scalable approval path for this new generation of nuclear technology.
“In deploying the first BWRX-300 small modular reactor, Ontario is leading the way globally in the deployment of SMRs,” said Maví Zingoni, CEO, Power, GE Vernova. “Our work with OPG and project partners will serve as a benchmark for the global nuclear industry.”
Economic Impact and Industry Participation
Ontario’s local supply chain is expected to play a key role in delivering the project. Components for the reactor will be manufactured within the province, and the broader construction program is anticipated to create thousands of jobs throughout the engineering, manufacturing, and operational phases.
“As the world looks to adopt SMR technology, we are proud to be embarking on construction of the first BWRX-300 with OPG, AtkinsRéalis and Aecon,” said Lisa McBride, Canada Country Leader, GVH. “Ontario’s supply chain is expected to contribute significantly to this project bringing substantial economic benefits to the province including the creation of thousands of jobs during manufacturing, construction and operation.”
GE Vernova’s presence in Canada dates back over 130 years, with deep ties to the country’s nuclear sector. The company’s early contributions include the development of the Nuclear Power Demonstration (NPD) reactor in the 1950s, a prototype that served as the foundation for the CANDU fleet.
Outlook for Future Reactors
The Darlington project is expected to serve as a model for SMR deployment in other jurisdictions, combining proven technology, regulatory collaboration, and a repeatable delivery model. If successful, the additional BWRX-300 units planned for the site will reinforce SMRs as a viable solution for zero-emission baseload power, grid reliability, and long-term energy planning.
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