Ontario Power Generation Contracts AtkinsRéalis for Groundbreaking Small Modular Reactors at Darlington

Candu Energy Inc., a subsidiary of AtkinsRéalis, is stepping into a key role by providing OPG with comprehensive engineering expertise for the BWRX-300 SMR. This expertise encompasses a wide range of areas, including project management, regulatory licensing, engineering design, procurement, construction support, and commissioning. Notably, the project will also utilize advanced digital delivery capabilities for both the nuclear island and the balance of plant scopes, showcasing an innovative approach to modern nuclear construction.

AtkinsRéalis President and CEO Ian Edwards shared insights on the company’s commitment to SMRs, emphasizing their significant role in developing stable, affordable, and reliable power grids. Edwards pointed out that this project signifies not only a milestone for Canada as it will be the first grid-scale SMR built in a G7 country but also represents Canada’s return to nuclear construction after nearly three decades. “This underlines our leading position in the global nuclear energy market, encompassing both large and small reactor technologies,” he stated.

Since 2023, AtkinsRéalis has been an integral part of the Darlington New Nuclear Project alliance team, collaborating with reactor vendor GE Vernova Hitachi Nuclear Energy (GVH) and construction partner Aecon Kiewit Nuclear Partners. Aecon Kiewit was awarded the construction contract for the execution phase earlier this month, strengthening the project’s development team.

In April, the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission issued a construction license for the first SMR at the Darlington site, paving the way for the official start of construction, which received government approval on May 8. Moreover, preliminary site preparation work has successfully been completed on schedule and within budget, underscoring the efficiency and capability of the project team.

Nicolle Butcher, President and CEO of OPG, expressed confidence in the collaboration with AtkinsRéalis, highlighting their successful history, most notably with the Darlington Refurbishment Project, which was delivered on time and within budget. Together, OPG and AtkinsRéalis plan to leverage their extensive combined experience to ensure the success of the Darlington New Nuclear Project.

With Ontario’s power demand projected to surge by 75% by 2050, the need for a diverse energy mix becomes crucial. Joe St Julian, President of Nuclear at AtkinsRéalis, emphasized the importance of integrating all forms of clean energy, including both large and small nuclear technologies, to meet future demands. He stated, “Together with our alliance partners, we will ensure Canada continues to lead the G7 in advancing the use of SMR technology,” while also extending support for international SMR projects in the UK, the US, and Poland.

The BWRX-300 SMR is designed as a water-cooled, natural circulation reactor with a capacity of 300 MWe. One of its standout features is the incorporation of passive safety systems, drawing on the design and licensing foundations established by GVH’s larger ESBWR boiling water reactor, which boasts a capacity of 1500 MW. This strategic design enhances safety and reliability, crucial elements in modern nuclear reactor technology.