OPG, Port Hope sign MOU to collaborate on new nuclear development at Wesleyville site
At a glance
- OPG and the Municipality of Port Hope have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to advance collaboration on the potential for large-scale new nuclear development at OPG’s Wesleyville site.
- Through the agreement, OPG and Port Hope will work together to progress planning, community engagement, sustainable development, and economic growth.
- The 1,300-acre Wesleyville site has the potential to host up to 10,000 megawatts of safe, reliable nuclear generation, enough to power about 10 million homes.
OPG and the Municipality of Port Hope are advancing collaboration on potential new nuclear development for Ontario’s future.
During a Feb. 12 event in Port Hope at OPG’s Nuclear Discovery Centre, representatives from the company and Municipality signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to advance collaboration on the potential for large-scale new nuclear generation at OPG’s Wesleyville site.
The 1,300-acre site, which was originally set to host an oil-fired station in the 1970s, could host up to 10,000 megawatts of safe, reliable, and low-carbon new nuclear generation, enough to power about 10 million homes and support the province’s growth and electrification.
“This important milestone, in a potential new nuclear development that is so critical to Ontario, is a testament to the strength of our relationship with this community,” said Nicolle Butcher, OPG’s President and CEO. “Working collaboratively with Port Hope, we can be sure the Municipality is able to engage fully on behalf of its residents in the multi-year process to assess and develop the site.”
This important milestone, in a potential new nuclear development that is so critical to Ontario, is a testament to the strength of our relationship with this community.Nicolle ButcherPresident and CEO, OPG
In January, OPG submitted the Initial Project Description for the project to the Impact Assessment Agency of Canada (IAAC). This was the first regulatory step to advance the project through the necessary, multi-phased impact assessment, which will look at its potential impacts and explore how adverse effects could be mitigated.
It also provides an opportunity for Indigenous Nations, the Municipality, stakeholders, and the public to share their perspectives and views.
Through the MOU, OPG and Port Hope will work together to advance the impact assessment process, which is being led by the IAAC in collaboration with the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission.
The agreement also includes an additional $4.5 million in growth readiness funding to Port Hope to support the community’s preparation and exploration of nuclear power.
Once the impact assessment process concludes, and pending a decision to advance the project, OPG and the Municipality would negotiate a host community agreement, through which additional funding would be made available.
| OPG's Wesleyville site could host up to 10,000 MW of safe, reliable, and low-carbon new nuclear generation for Ontario's future. |
Wesleyville is one of three sites, along with Lambton and Nanticoke, that OPG continues to explore opportunities with Rightsholders and local communities for potential new generation to meet Ontario’s forecasted increase in energy demand.
In addition to abundant electricity, a new nuclear station at Wesleyville would generate important economic and associated benefits, including attracting co-industries to the site.
According to the Conference Board of Canada, a potential large nuclear development would contribute $235 billion to Ontario’s GDP over its lifespan including design, construction, operation, and maintenance. It could also support an estimated 10,500 jobs across Ontario, including 1,700 new jobs in Port Hope, representing an average 15 to 20% boost to overall employment levels in the local area.
Residents can learn more about the project, including where to find team members in the community and upcoming public information sessions, by visiting the project website. They can also drop by OPG’s Nuclear Discovery Centre, located at 115 Toronto Rd. in Port Hope.
Related stories
Subscribe and stay informed
Sign up to receive the latest news, project updates, and event information from OPG.