Ontario Power Generation

OPG News Release, June 28, 2006

June 28, 2006

Ontario Power Generation Initiates Process for Refurbishment Study of Pickering B Nuclear Generating Station: Possible EA for Continued Operation Examined

[PICKERING]: Ontario Power Generation (OPG) has initiated the process to determine the need for an Environmental Assessment (EA) on the possible refurbishment of the Pickering B Nuclear Generating Station. This action is part of the business case analysis on the feasibility of life extension.

The business case will examine the safety, environmental, financial and logistical feasibility of life extension. This thorough, systematic review will be considered by OPG's management and Board of Directors, prior to making an investment decision.

"It is prudent to conduct the business case analysis now, to determine if it is commercially feasible to extend the service life of the Pickering B units and continue their contribution of virtually emission-free electricity for the province to approximately 2060," said OPG Chief Nuclear Officer Pierre Charlebois.

OPG has asked the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) to determine if an Environmental Assessment (EA) is required as part of the refurbishment project. An EA would help identify any potentially significant environmental effects that may arise from plant refurbishment. It would also ensure that any necessary mitigation measures are identified early in the planning process. These factors would be important considerations in the decision by the OPG Board of Directors on whether to invest in refurbishment. Consultation with the public and other stakeholders would be an essential part of any EA process. It is expected that an EA report could be ready in 2007.

The Pickering B nuclear generating station consists of 4 – 516 MW nuclear reactors, and has been operating since 1983. It is located in the City of Pickering. The station currently generates enough electricity to serve a city of one million people at a cost significantly lower than the provincial market average, helping to moderate Ontario's electricity price.

Ontario Power Generation Inc. is an Ontario-based electricity generation company whose principal business is the generation and sale of electricity in Ontario. Our focus is on the efficient production and sale of electricity from our generation assets, while operating in a safe, open and environmentally responsible manner.

For more information contact:
Ontario Power Generation Media Relations
(416) 592-4008 or 1-877-592-4008