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Darlington Small Modular Reactor

Sector(s)
Clean Power
Location(s)
Clarington, Ontario
Participation
$970 million (financial close)
Partner(s)
Ontario Power Generation

Investing in Phase 1 of Canada’s first small modular reactor

Sustainable, clean energy to support Ontario’s grid and lower greenhouse gas emissions.

Fast facts

Once built, the SMR will reduce carbon emissions by an average of 740 kilotonnes annually between 2029 and 2050
Project will spearhead other Canadian SMR projects being considered in Saskatchewan, New Brunswick and Alberta

We are investing $970 million towards the SMR’s capital costs for Phase 1 which includes project design, procurement of long lead-time equipment, utility connections, site preparation and project management requirements.

SMRs are a new class of nuclear reactors of 300 megawatt or less which are designed with modular technology, resulting in enhanced safety, economies of scale and expected shorter construction schedule compared to traditional nuclear generating stations

The 300-megawatt SMR will provide enough electricity to power 300,000 homes.

Benefits of CIB Involvement

CIB fills gaps in funding and financing on projects where public and private investment are both required. In this project the economic gap is caused by higher costs associated with it being a first of a kind with unique circumstances that limit early private sector interest.

CIB has priority sectors including Clean Power – this project is consistent with the CIB’s goal of accelerating emission reductions.

Learn more

Disclaimer: Canada Infrastructure Bank, in its sole and absolute discretion, may choose to make available amendments, revisions, modifications or replacements to this website. This page will remain open for further revision, modification, replacement or cancellation by Canada Infrastructure Bank at any time and in no event shall Canada Infrastructure Bank be responsible or liable, directly or indirectly, for any damage or loss caused or alleged to be caused by or in connection with the use of or reliance on the content of this website. Pictures courtesy of Ontario Power Generation.



Ontario Power Generation Nuclear plant
An aerial view of the Darlington Nuclear Station
3D drawing of the Darlington Small Modular Reactor that will be built
OPG

We know nuclear energy, including from SMRs, is an essential part of the electricity mix to help meet our climate change goals. This low-interest financing helps us advance the Darlington New Nuclear Project, paving the way for development and deployment of the next generation of nuclear power in Canada.

Ken Hartwick, President and Chief Executive Officer
Government of Canada

Today’s announcement represents a significant step towards the development of a non-emitting electricity grid and a prosperous net-zero future. The deployment of one of Canada’s first Small Modular Reactors (SMR) at Darlington Station will further enhance Canada’s leadership in nuclear technology, create sustainable jobs, and reduce emissions. This announcement represents an important step forward for energy security and availability in Canada.

Hon. Jonathan Wilkinson
Government of Ontario

Ontario is leading the way when it comes to new nuclear technologies and the world is watching as we build the first ever grid-scale SMR at Darlington. Today’s investment is a demonstration of the incredible opportunities of SMRs and nuclear power as a way to produce clean electricity to attract new investment, create jobs, and grow our economy while supporting electrification.

Hon. Todd Smith

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