OPG Darlington Refurbishment Good News for Stable Electricity Prices, the Economy and Ontario's Climate Change Ambitions

TORONTO, Jan. 11, 2016 /CNW/ - The Society of Energy Professionals, Local 160 of the International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers, applauded announcements today by Ontario Power Generation and the Ontario government that the Darlington Generating Station will be refurbished and continue to play a significant role in Ontario's Long Term Energy Plan, and that Pickering Generating Station will continue in service until 2024.

"This is not only good news for Ontario Power Generation and our members but is positive for electricity ratepayers, too. This agreement will secure a low-cost, stable source of electricity for years to come, while also contributing to our growing economy," said Scott Travers, President of The Society of Energy Professionals, IFPTE Local 160. "The Conference Board of Canada studied this project and found that 95% of the $12.8 billion investment will be spent in Ontario, increasing the province's GDP by $14.9 billion," added Travers.

Nuclear power continues to be a leading reason that Ontario's energy grid has one of the lowest carbon footprints in the world. By extending the life of the four Darlington reactors for 30 years Ontario has also secured that legacy for the next generation.

"The Darlington site is one of the largest sources of carbon-free electricity in Ontario and along with the rest of our nuclear fleet will allow the province to continue to have the modern, clean electricity system that is essential to tackling our short- and long-term climate change targets," said Travers.

The provincial government also announced that Pickering Generating Station will continue in service until 2024 pending Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission approval.

"Keeping Pickering in service is a smart move," said Travers. "With both Bruce Power and Ontario Power Generation refurbishing their nuclear assets, the only way to meet the province's green house gas emission targets is to extend the life of Pickering while the early phases of refurbishment are completed."

SOURCE The Society of Energy Professionals

Adam Chaleff-Freudenthaler, Society of Energy Professionals, 647.500.2394