The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) has authorized Ontario Power Generation (OPG) to construct a small modular reactor (SMR) at the Darlington Nuclear Generating Station in Clarington, Ontario. This marks the first SMR construction license granted in Canada, representing a significant milestone in the nation’s pursuit of emissions-free energy solutions.
The approved reactor, the BWRX-300 designed by GE Hitachi Nuclear Energy, is a 300-megawatt electric (MWe) SMR that employs passive safety systems and natural circulation for cooling. These features aim to enhance safety and reduce complexity compared to traditional reactor designs.
OPG’s application for the construction license was submitted in October 2022, following the selection of the BWRX-300 design in December 2021. The CNSC’s decision, announced on April 4, 2025, concluded that OPG is qualified to carry out the authorized activities and has adequate provisions to protect health, safety, security, and the environment.
Ken Hartwick, OPG’s President and CEO, stated, “This license is a crucial step forward in our efforts to provide safe, reliable, and clean energy to Ontario. The BWRX-300 SMR at Darlington will play a key role in meeting our climate change goals and supporting economic growth.”
The Darlington site is currently the only location in Canada licensed for new nuclear construction with a completed and accepted Environmental Assessment. The project is expected to create approximately 2,000 jobs during construction and contribute significantly to Ontario’s GDP.
Small modular reactors like the BWRX-300 are considered a promising advancement in nuclear technology, offering benefits such as reduced construction times, lower costs, and enhanced safety features. They are designed to be scalable and versatile, making them suitable for various applications, including grid-scale electricity generation and industrial processes.
The CNSC’s approval of the SMR construction license at Darlington aligns with Canada’s commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 and positions the country as a leader in the development and deployment of next-generation nuclear technologies.
