Unit 8 returns to service after planned maintenance outage

TIVERTON, ON, April 26, 2016 /CNW/ - Bruce Power's Unit 8 was returned to service yesterday after the successful completion of a planned maintenance outage, which began on Jan. 15.

There were over 24,000 tasks built into the schedule of the $116 million private investment program, with extensive work being completed on nearly every system in Unit 8. The unit is now prepared to reliably provide 822 megawatts of carbon-free energy to Ontarians as we enter the warm summer months.

"Once again we have proven we can complete major maintenance programs on time and budget," said Pierre Pilon, Senior Vice President, Bruce B. "Every time we complete an outage we learn lessons that allow us to be a better, more efficient and safer organization as we move forward. These lessons serve us well both today and as we prepare for our future refurbishment programs."

During the outage, Bruce Power Operators also harvested Cobalt-60 from the reactor. The material will be used to sterilize about 40 per cent of the world's single-use medical devices – gloves, masks, gowns, sutures, catheters, etc. – keeping hospitals safe for our most vulnerable citizens. Learn more about Cobalt-60 at www.cleannuclearpowersafehospitals.com.

The success of the Unit 8 outage, combined with strong performance so far in 2016 from Bruce Power's other units – including a post-refurbishment record run in Unit 1 that sits at 163 days and counting – helps keep electricity bills low for the people of Ontario, because Bruce Power provides 30 per cent of the province's power at 30 per cent less than the average residential price of electricity.

"Every day, we provide an integral service to the people of Ontario," said Len Clewett, Executive Vice President and Chief Nuclear Officer. "The province requires a reliable, carbon-free source of electricity, and, by consistently completing our planned maintenance programs on time and budget, Bruce Power is fulfilling this need."

Bruce Power's Unit 2 is also currently in the midst of a planned maintenance outage, and it will return to service later in the second quarter.

About Bruce Power
Bruce Power operates the world's largest operating nuclear generating facility and is the source of roughly 30 per cent of Ontario's electricity. The company's site in Tiverton, Ontario is home to eight CANDU reactors. Formed in 2001, Bruce Power is an all-Canadian partnership among Borealis Infrastructure Trust Management (a division of the Ontario Municipal Employees Retirement System), TransCanada, the Power Workers' Union and the Society of Energy Professionals. A majority of Bruce Power's employees are also owners in the business.

For updated Bruce Power photos and b-roll video, please visit our Media Kit page.

SOURCE Bruce Power

John Peevers - 519-361-6583; Bruce Power Duty Media - 519-361-6161