Ontario is set to become a global leader in nuclear innovation following the announcement of a groundbreaking equity partnership between the province and the Williams Treaties First Nations (WTFN). This $700 million First Nations investment in small modular reactors at the Darlington New Nuclear Project marks an unprecedented milestone for both Indigenous communities and the province’s energy future.

First Equity Partnership in Canadian Nuclear History

The significant investment from WTFN is the first equity stake by Indigenous peoples in any Canadian nuclear venture. This indigenous equity partnership not only advances economic reconciliation but also sets an industry precedent, positioning Ontario as a model for inclusive and sustainable energy development.

Darlington Site to Host Advanced Nuclear Technology

The Ontario nuclear project at Darlington is at the heart of the province’s plan to expand clean energy infrastructure. The development includes four small modular reactors (SMRs) designed to supply up to 1,200 megawatts of clean electricity, enough to power approximately 1.2 million homes across Ontario. The adoption of SMRs—cutting-edge technology that is smaller, safer, and more flexible than traditional reactors—underscores the region’s ambition to provide sustainable energy for generations.

Economic Impact Across Ontario and Beyond

This government investment in nuclear energy brings significant economic promise. During construction, the project is expected to create up to 18,000 jobs, fueling a diverse range of career opportunities. In the long-term, Darlington’s SMRs are projected to support around 3,800 skilled Canadian nuclear jobs annually for 65 years, making a lasting contribution to workforce development and prosperity in Ontario and Canada at large.

Strengthening the Nuclear Supply Chain

Ontario’s robust nuclear supply chain will be further strengthened through the Darlington initiative. Already, over 100 Canadian companies are integrated into the project, with the majority of expenditures—approximately 80 percent—expected to remain within Ontario. The province aims to leverage this momentum to expand nuclear technology exports, reinforcing the local economy and building on its tradition of excellence in energy innovation.

Supporting Local Communities and Economic Reconciliation

A key feature of the Darlington New Nuclear Project is its commitment to economic reconciliation. The First Nations investment, enabled by coordinated provincial and federal financing guarantees, lowers borrowing costs and is anticipated to save ratepayers up to $15 billion over the life of the project. This partnership paves the way for deeper collaboration in future clean energy initiatives and delivers economic benefits to Indigenous partners and local communities in Ontario.

Long-Term Benefits and National Impact

Beyond immediate job creation and clean energy generation, the Darlington New Nuclear Project is projected to add $38.5 billion to Canada’s GDP throughout its lifetime. The small modular reactors initiative supports a vision of sustainable energy, local innovation, and cross-cultural cooperation, reinforcing Ontario’s position as a leader in the global transition to low-carbon power.

Looking Ahead: Energy for Generations

With the Darlington New Nuclear Project, Ontario signals its commitment to providing safe, reliable, and low-carbon clean electricity well into the future. Through strategic partnerships, continued investment, and a focus on energy for generations, the province is set to remain at the forefront of nuclear energy innovation—ensuring both local communities and future generations benefit from this pivotal shift in Canada’s energy landscape.