Bruce Power has taken a crucial step in its Life Extension Program with the deployment of eight steam generators at Unit 3. This advancement within the Major Component Replacement (MCR) project will ensure clean and reliable energy for Ontario for decades to come.
Installation of steam generators with advanced technology
On February 12, the final installation of the steam drum on the generators was completed, marking the structural progress of the nuclear modernization plan . The scheduled shutdown of Unit 3, which began in 2023 , is ongoing and the renovated plant is expected to return to operation in 2026. This initiative is key to responding to the 75% growth in energy demand projected for the province.
For six months, Bruce Power and the Steam Generator Replacement Team (SGRT) have been coordinating the removal and replacement of the aging 100-tonne steam generators. Mammoet’s PTC-35 crane , which stands over 100 metres high , was used to remove the old equipment through the roof of Bruce A Station and lift the new equipment into place.
It was a major initiative that required over a year and a half of planning just to get to the execution phase, which was carried out safely and successfully thanks to a high degree of collaboration. I want to congratulate everyone involved in supporting this successful outcome, including our partners and the skilled workers who helped make it possible.
Said Rob Hoare, vice president of MCR execution at Bruce Power.
Expansion and next steps
The replacement of this equipment represents a $250 million investment funded by private capital , of which 97% was spent on hiring and parts in Ontario. SGRT’s workforce peaked at 425 professionals, including 320 skilled tradespeople.
Looking ahead, Bruce Power and SGRT have entered into a $700 million agreement to continue the refurbishment of Units 5, 7 and 8.
Our team will continue to bring innovation and experience to each steam generator replacement to maintain project schedule and quality.
Said Erik Dorman, executive vice president of Framatome in North America.
With this modernization, Bruce Power reinforces its commitment to sustainability and energy security, contributing to Ontario’s economic and environmental development through low-carbon nuclear energy .
Follow us on social media and don’t miss any of our posts!
YouTube LinkedIn Facebook Instagram X (Twitter) TikTok
Source and photo: Bruce Power
