Canada is making waves in the world of clean energy with a groundbreaking decision that could shape its future. The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) has given the thumbs up for a new Small Modular Reactor (SMR) project. Ontario Power Generation (OPG) now holds the license to build a BWRX-300 SMR at the Darlington New Nuclear Project (DNNP) site in Clarington, Ontario. This license, valid until March 2035, comes with four specific conditions to ensure everything runs smoothly and safely.
Getting this approval wasn’t a walk in the park. It followed a detailed review process, which included a two-part public hearing. The first part was virtual in October 2024, and the second was in-person in January 2025. Public engagement and Indigenous consultation were crucial here. The CNSC made it clear that they’re committed to public participation and respecting Indigenous rights, fulfilling their constitutional duties in the process.
The BWRX-300, developed by GE Hitachi Nuclear Energy, is no ordinary reactor. It’s a cutting-edge version that builds on previous models like the Economic Simplified Boiling Water Reactor (ESBWR) and the Advanced Boiling Water Reactor (ABWR). What makes this SMR stand out? Its passive safety features. It can shut down and cool itself using natural convection to circulate water through the reactor core. This means it’s not only safer but also simpler and more cost-effective, even in extreme conditions.
The Darlington New Nuclear Project is a strategic investment in Ontario’s energy future. OPG plans to build up to four SMRs on this site, potentially adding 4,800 megawatts of zero-emissions electricity to the provincial grid. Located on the eastern part of the existing Darlington Nuclear campus, the site is already equipped with the necessary infrastructure and has a site preparation license from CNSC. The BWRX-300 will be the first of its kind, setting the stage for future reactors in Ontario and possibly across Canada.
Approving the BWRX-300 is a pivotal move in Canada’s energy and climate strategy. As the world’s energy demands grow and the push to cut greenhouse gas emissions intensifies, nuclear energy offers a reliable, carbon-free alternative. It complements renewable sources like wind and solar. SMRs are versatile, quicker to build, and cheaper than traditional reactors, making them great for remote communities, industrial uses, and replacing old fossil fuel infrastructure.
By embracing nuclear technology like the BWRX-300, Canada is not just boosting its energy security. It’s also fostering innovation, creating skilled jobs, and strengthening its position in the global clean energy landscape.
