Bruce Power awards steam generator design and supply contract to BWXT

BWX Technologies subsidiary BWXT Canada has been awarded a steam generator design, manufacturing and delivery contract valued at approximately CDN$130m (approximately $100m) from Bruce Power for its Bruce B Unit 6 reactor.

Under this contract, BWXT Canada will design, manufacture and deliver eight steam generators for Bruce B’s Unit 6, which will go offline for refurbishment starting in 2020. The contract follows a memorandum of understanding, which was signed by both companies in December of 2015 after the Ontario government announced that Bruce Power will advance a long-term, incremental life extension program.

The contract is expected to secure over 100 jobs in both engineering and skilled labour for Cambridge-based BWXT Canada through 2020, which is when the units will ship from Cambridge to Bruce Power, located near Kincardine, Ontario.

BWXT Canada has supplied all steam generators installed at the Bruce Nuclear Generating Station since the station went online in 1977.

“BWXT Canada is home to some of the world’s most talented nuclear component engineers and fabricators, and we are pleased to continue in the supply of steam generators for the Bruce site,” said BWXT Canada President John MacQuarrie. “As a key supplier to Bruce Power, it gives our organization great pride to play a part in the continued generation of affordable, safe, non-greenhouse-gas-emitting and reliable power for the Province of Ontario.”

Kevin Kelly, Bruce Power’s Chief Financial Officer and Acting President, said the announcement paves the way for future benefits to all Ontarians. “The refurbishment of the Bruce Power units will create jobs, boost Ontario’s economy and ensure a steady and reliable supply of clean, low-cost electricity for Ontario families and businesses for the long term,” Kelly said. “The steam generator replacement program is integral to our refurbishment and BWXT and Bruce Power have a long history of shared success and shared values and I look forward to continued success as we work together to enhance Ontario’s energy infrastructure.”

“BWXT Canada and Bruce Power are key players in Ontario’s strong and proud nuclear industry,” said Glenn Thibeault, Minister of Energy. “Our industry has an international reputation for safety and excellence, and an impressive history of supporting jobs at home. Finalizing today’s contract will secure well-paying jobs in this region and contribute to decades of clean, reliable, and affordable power in Ontario.”

“I’m proud of the people here in Cambridge whose skills and expertise will make such an important contribution to the success of this vital project, helping to ensure safe, reliable and affordable electricity for families and businesses across the province,” said Kathryn McGarry, MPP for Cambridge.