OCNI Applauds Historic Milestone as Ontario Breaks Ground on First Grid-Scale SMR at Darlington

Clarington, ON – The Organization of Canadian Nuclear Industries (OCNI) Applauds the Historic Milestone as Ontario Breaks Ground on the First Grid-Scale SMR at Darlington. OCNI joined industry and government leaders as Ontario Power Generation (OPG), with support from the Government of Ontario, announced the start of nuclear construction on the first of four Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) at the Darlington New Nuclear Project (DNNP). This unit will be the first grid-scale SMR built in a G7 country.

The BWRX-300 SMR will deliver clean, reliable electricity to power approximately 300,000 homes, contributing to Ontario’s growing energy needs and long-term Net Zero goals. Construction of the first unit is on track for completion by the end of the decade, with grid connection anticipated by 2030. All four units are expected to be operational by the mid-2030s.

“This is a significant moment for Ontario and for Canada’s nuclear sector that reflects years of preparation, collaboration, and commitment to building a strong, sustainable energy future—powered by local expertise and innovation,” said Ivette Vera-Perez, OCNI President and CEO.

Key Project Highlights:

• 80% of the project’s components will be sourced from Ontario’s domestic supply chain.
• The SMR project will create thousands of high-quality jobs and generate billions in economic benefits for Ontario.
• The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) has granted OPG a License to Construct.
• The project strengthens Canada’s position in the $150 billion global SMR market anticipated by 2040.

OCNI and its more than 250+ member companies are actively supporting the Darlington SMR build through engineering services, advanced manufacturing, skilled trades, and innovative technologies. The project is creating momentum for Ontario’s supply chain and demonstrating Canada’s leadership in clean energy development.

The Organization of Canadian Nuclear Industries (OCNI) represents and advocates for Canada’s nuclear supply chain, uniting over 250 member companies, including manufacturers, engineering firms, and service providers. These members employ more than 15,000 highly skilled professionals and support large reactor and small modular reactor (SMR) technologies domestically and internationally. OCNI launched its Ready4SMR programming in 2022 to support the development of a pan-Canadian supply chain and which can support the development of skilled labour and jobs for all of Canada’s nuclear programs.

Media Contact:

Alex Hori
Manager, Communications & Programs
alex.hori@ocni.ca
(905) 839-0073