AI-generated illustration; not a photograph of the reported event.
- calendar_today November 6, 2026
Ontario Announces Major Contracts for Small Modular Reactor Project
The Ontario government has awarded 14 contracts to companies in the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area (GTHA) for the construction of the G7’s first small modular reactor (SMR) at the Darlington New Nuclear Project (DNNP). This initiative is part of Ontario’s broader strategy to bolster its energy sector, protect local industries amid U.S. tariffs, and position itself as a global leader in nuclear technology.
Supporting Local Jobs and Economic Growth
According to the province, these contracts are expected to support the creation of good-paying jobs in the GTHA, sustaining hundreds of workers and generating more than $110 million for Ontario’s GDP. Ontario’s supply chain will provide critical components for this landmark clean energy project, such as transformers, pumps, and specialized steel. The move also connects regional businesses to one of the province’s largest energy infrastructure investments, expanding opportunities for skilled trades and suppliers to participate in next-generation nuclear technology.
Minister Highlights Nuclear Energy Advantage
Stephen Lecce, Minister of Energy and Mines, emphasized the significance of the contracts: “By being first in the G7 to build small modular reactors, Ontario is securing a first-mover advantage that translates into real contracts and good-paying jobs. Our government’s efforts are turning best-in-class nuclear expertise into a competitive advantage, creating more than 18,000 jobs when we need them most.”
Contract Recipients and Project Details
Among the recipients is Scarborough-based Armstrong Fluid Technology, which has been granted a $3.9 million contract to provide a pumphouse enclosure and pumps for the project. Other companies awarded contracts include Oakville-based Hooper Welding, supplying steel for structural modules, and Toronto-based St. Mary’s Cement, offering concrete and operating a specialized batch plant for the build. In total, more than 100 Canadian companies have agreements with Ontario Power Generation (OPG) linked to the DNNP, establishing domestic leadership in emerging nuclear markets.
Expanding Ontario's Nuclear Supply Chain
The economic impact extends across Ontario, with new manufacturing investments such as Velan’s facility in Durham Region for safety valve production for European SMRs, and BWXT Canada’s plans to manufacture key SMR components domestically for export to Poland. These developments strengthen Ontario’s ability to compete globally as more countries seek secure, reliable, and affordable sources of electricity.
Project Impact on Clean Electricity and Jobs
The four SMR units at DNNP are designed to contribute 1,200 megawatts of clean, reliable electricity, enough to power approximately 1.2 million homes. The government estimates construction, operation, and maintenance will add $38.5 billion to Canada’s GDP over the next 65 years, while sustaining 3,800 highly-skilled jobs over the same period. Notably, the province has ensured that 80 percent of project spending will be directed to Ontario-based companies.
Nuclear Power in Ontario’s Integrated Energy Plan
SMRs are a cornerstone of Ontario's 'Energy for Generations' strategy, which aims to secure reliable and affordable electricity to support economic development and population growth. The Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO) highlighted that replacing the output of four SMRs would require up to 8,900 megawatts of wind and solar projects paired with battery storage, a scenario considered riskier and less practical than the SMR approach.
Government and Federal Investment
The DNNP is backed by major government funding, including a $1 billion provincial commitment through the Building Ontario Fund and a $2 billion federal investment via the Canada Growth Fund. Ontario’s IESO projects that electricity demand could climb by 90 percent by 2050, underlining the long-term necessity of projects like the DNNP.
Looking Ahead
Ontario’s commitment to SMR technology and local manufacturing is intended to help secure its position as a global energy superpower, with ongoing benefits for workers and industries throughout the region. As construction moves forward, the Darlington New Nuclear Project is set to play a central role in delivering clean electricity and supporting economic growth for generations.
Source: news.ontario.ca.
