nuclear-news

World’s Largest Nuclear Station or Lower Electricity Bills?

Nuclear Power: The Most Expensive and Slowest Option

Nuclear reactors are the highest cost option to meet Ontario’s electricity needs – up to 10 times higher than energy efficiency, and 2 to 8 times higher than new wind and solar energy.

They are also far too slow. According to OPG, these new nuclear reactors would not come online until 2040 – 2048. That means more than 20 years of construction, cost overruns, and continued reliance on polluting gas.

By contrast, new wind and solar projects can be built in 6 months – 2 years, reducing emissions and lowering bills quickly. 

A Risky Dependence on Foreign Fuel

To make matters worse, OPG is considering purchasing American-designed reactors from GE-Hitachi or Westinghouse. These reactors would require Ontario to import enriched uranium from the United States to fuel them. Does that seem like a good idea given the current political craziness unfolding south of the border?  

The Better Alternative

OPG’s proposal fails to examine crucial alternatives.

Could Ontario meet its electricity needs more cheaply, more quickly, and more safely by investing in energy efficiency, wind power, solar energy, and energy storage (such as batteries and compressed air storage)?

This is a question that the Impact Assessment Agency of Canada (IAAC) must examine during its mandatory review. That will only happen if the public demands it.

What you can do

 Submit Public Comments – Deadline: Midnight, Wed. Feb. 11

The IAAC is accepting public comments on OPG’s application.

Submit your comments through the IAAC portal or email them to: wesleyville@iaac-aeic.gc.ca

Ask the IAAC to direct OPG to evaluate whether energy efficiency, renewables, and energy storage are lower-cost, faster, safer, and more secure ways to meet Ontario’s electricity needs than building a massive new nuclear station at Port Hope

January 24, 2026 - Posted by Christina Macpherson | business and costs, Canada, politics