Tennessee is set to become a key player in the future of nuclear energy with a $5.4 billion project aimed at deploying small modular reactors (SMRs). Spearheaded by the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), this initiative brings together industry heavyweights Bechtel, Sargent & Lundy, and GE Hitachi Nuclear Energy to develop next-generation nuclear technology at the Clinch River site in Roane County.
Bechtel, a global leader in engineering and construction, will lead initial site preparation and construction planning, ensuring the groundwork is laid for this transformative energy project. Unlike traditional nuclear plants, SMRs are designed to be more cost-effective, scalable, and safer, making them a promising solution for clean energy expansion in the U.S.
The TVA has long explored nuclear as a stable, low-carbon energy source, and this project marks a significant step toward commercializing SMR technology. With the growing demand for reliable power and a push toward decarbonization, this effort could set the stage for the nationwide adoption of modular reactors.
“Today, tech companies are racing to deploy AI, but they need more power to unlock the next wave of innovation. At the same time, mounting public pressure to decarbonize is forcing them to seek cleaner energy sources. These twin pressures—soaring electricity demand and the push for sustainability—have breathed life into the nuclear industry,” said Bechtel President and COO Craig Albert.
Beyond its environmental and energy implications, the project is expected to drive economic growth in the region, creating construction and engineering jobs while reinforcing Tennessee’s role as a leader in nuclear innovation. This collaboration could provide a blueprint for future SMR deployments, offering a viable path to meet the country’s increasing energy needs with sustainable solutions.
“Bechtel is honored to be selected by TVA for this important work and is proud to be at the forefront of new nuclear power generation,” said Ahmet Tokpinar, general manager of Bechtel’s Nuclear Power business. “We are committed to leveraging our extensive experience and expertise, utilizing new tools and innovations, to construct this project. We look forward to continuing our partnership with TVA to deliver new, clean energy.”
Stay up to date on the latest developments in nuclear energy and construction innovation—subscribe to our newsletter today!
Florida’s Kennedy Space Center could see construction on a new SpaceX facility break ground as early as April, according to a document published with the Federal Aviation Administration and reported by Florida Today. This latest project, called Starship Gigabay, will be located near SpaceX’s Roberts Road facilities within a security gate part of the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, with construction concealed from the general public.
A SpaceX rocket launches on the CRS-10 resupply mission to the International Space Station.
Led by Elon Musk, President Trump’s Department of Government Efficiency head, SpaceX already has one Megabay situated in Texas. The Gigabay in Florida would be used similarly for stacking and preparing the firm’s 232-foot-tall Super Heavy Rockets.
“The project includes at least $1.8 billion of SpaceX capital investment and will bring an estimated 600 new full-time jobs in the Space Coast by 2030,” said Florida Governor Ron DeSantis’ office in a recent statement.
When fully stacked, the Starship rockets reach over 400 feet in height, just short of NASA’s Vehicle Assembly Building, which stands 525 feet tall. At its full height, the Starship Gigabay will be a recognizable feature from a distance while passers-by approach Cape Canaveral.
Construction on the Starship Gigabay is set to commence in April 2025 and wrap up in August 2026. NASA’s Artemis III mission is projected to utilize the Gigabay as a lunar lander for humans as early as 2027. SpaceX is ambitiously pushing to launch an unmanned Starship to Mars in late 2026.
Although the Starship is said to carry up to 100 crew members at once, it has yet to fly any crewed missions. In the near future, it will be used to deploy satellites like SpaceX’s Starlink. However, it failed in its January flight when the rocket broke down above the Turks and Caicos Islands.
SpaceX’s future goals are highly ambitious, and with many astronaut missions, timelines will likely be revised several times.
Skanska USA is taking a leading role in expanding the Supply Chain Sustainability School to the United States. The initiative has already trained over 137,000 professionals and partnered with over 30,000 companies across the UK, Ireland, and Australia. With endorsements from 300+ contractors, clients, and suppliers, the school now offers its expertise to North American construction professionals.
The school provides free training, industry resources, and networking opportunities to help businesses strengthen their sustainability efforts. In previous regions, 72% of members reported a better understanding of sustainability, 48% saw cost savings, and 40% won new business through their involvement.
The supply chain sustainability school offers a range of topics to learn from, which include, but aren’t limited to:
Energy and carbon reduction
Environmental management
Waste and circular economy best practices
Climate adaption
Sustainable procurement
Supplier diversity
These courses offer a structured learning experience, with CE-accredited e-learning modules, tailored assessments, action plans, and benchmarking tools that help companies track progress and set goals.
Why this sustainability school matters
According to recent reports, the construction industry is responsible for 38% of all global emissions. While this number can vary, it’s clear that the industry needs an overhaul, especially considering the ambitious environmental goal of net zero emissions many countries have agreed to. The environmental sustainability school is a great step for the United States construction industry to promote more innovative and sustainable practices.
The school will also benefit Skanska’s extensive network of subcontractors. Mason Ford, director of equipment services for Skanska USA Civil, highlighted how the initiative will support subcontractors: “The Supply Chain Sustainability School gives its students the tools to keep up with the growing demands of the construction industry and the need for a sustainable supply chain. As founding partners, Skanska looks to promote these resources to our subcontractors and prospective subcontractors to better integrate sustainable practices into their work on infrastructure projects.”
Skanska’s involvement in this initiative shows that it is committed to driving sustainability across the construction supply chain. The world needs more initiatives like this to achieve net zero emissions and slow down the effects of global warming.
If you want to learn more about sustainable building practices, subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media to stay updated on the latest trends in sustainable construction.
Construction tech company Acumatica has announced product integration with two other tech-based construction offerings, JobPlanner and STACK Construction Technologies, in partnerships designed to help construction companies thrive.
Acumatica Construction Edition is enterprise resource planning (ERP) software that provides cloud-based business management solutions for small—to mid-sized construction companies. It offers real-time connections between field, office, and remote workers, instant data access to dashboards, flexible drop-shipping to work sites, and compliance management.
JobPlanner is construction management software that connects teams and streamlines processes throughout a project’s lifecycle, from project planning and bidding to job costing and contracting to completion and closeout. JobPlanner enables collaboration between general contractors, vendors, and subcontractors and connects the office to the job site, ensuring reliable, up-to-date information. JobPlanner’s mobile app complements Acumatica’s existing software solutions and creates a robust construction management suite.
“Integrating JobPlanner into Acumatica Construction Edition brings unparalleled value to construction professionals,” said DeWayne Adamson, CEO of JobPlanner. “Acumatica’s robust platform, combined with JobPlanner’s collaborative project management capabilities, will help contractors streamline their workflows, enhance communication, and achieve project goals more effectively.”
STACK Construction Technologies offers a cloud-based construction software platform designed to help companies work faster and more accurately on every project, from start to finish. Tools such as Takeoff, Estimate, Build, and Operate enhance efficiency, transparency, and productivity for contractors and construction companies. Acumatica enhances its preconstruction offerings by partnering with STACK, helping contractors calculate costs and boost profitability.
Regarding the new integrations, Joel Hoffman, director of product management at Acumatica, says, “Our construction customers rely on Acumatica to provide a comprehensive, cloud-native solution that spans the entire project lifecycle. Our new strategic partnerships with JobPlanner and STACK exemplify our commitment to delivering powerful, integrated solutions that enhance collaboration, automate workflows, and drive better outcomes for construction businesses.”
Sign up for our newsletter and follow us on social media for all the latest construction news, gear reviews, and tips for staying healthy under the hard hat.
Good news for construction workers in the Big Apple—the latest annual New York City Construction Report reported the fewest building construction-related fatalities in almost ten years. In a press release, New York’s Department of Buildings (DOB) shared findings from the report, including seven construction-related deaths and an 8% decrease in workplace injuries since 2018.
The Annual Construction Safety Report details construction-related injuries and fatalities in New York City. Key findings from the report include:
Seven construction-related fatalities in 2023, down from 11 in 2022, representing the lowest NYC construction-related fatalities in almost a decade.
Worker injuries have risen for the third year, increasing 25% over 2022.
Falls remain the leading cause of serious injuries and fatalities on construction sites.
In 2023, DOB issued 31% fewer Stop Work Orders and 18 % fewer OATH violations.
In 2023, the DOB conducted over 370,000 field inspections in NYC, the highest number since the DOB began tracking data.
Total permits for all projects decreased by 3%, but initial permits for new building projects increased by 28%.
14% increase in ladder falls, stair falls, and tripping incidents.
Despite an increase in building construction-related injuries since 2022, these injuries are still down 8% from five years ago, representing an overall trend of increasing safety on construction sites.
Regarding the report’s data, Department of Buildings Commissioner Jimmy Oddo says, “This Construction Safety Week, let’s challenge ourselves, as an industry and a regulatory agency, to join together in redoubling their efforts to keep construction workers safe on the job site. Collectively, we should be proud of the collaborative work done in 2023 to drive down building construction-related fatalities, but there is still so much work to do because even one death is too many. Our annual Construction Safety Report underscores the progress made in enhancing compliance and promoting worksite safety, while also serving as a potent reminder about the tragic consequences when corners are cut and safety regulations are ignored.”
The DOB hopes that the trend towards increased safety will continue next year, with decreasing injury rates and even fewer construction-related deaths.
Workplace vehicle incidents remain one of the deadliest hazards in construction. Whether it’s struck-by accidents, rollovers, or collisions in work zones, these incidents lead to serious injuries and fatalities every year. To tackle this issue, OSHA has joined the National Safety Council (NSC) and the Road to Zero Coalition, an initiative focused on eliminating roadway deaths. This move highlights the urgent need for better safety practices when it comes to operating and working around vehicles on job sites.
What this means for construction companies
The construction industry relies heavily on trucks, heavy equipment, and other vehicles to keep projects moving. But with so many moving parts, the risks add up quickly. OSHA’s partnership with the NSC brings more resources and attention to preventing these types of incidents. Employers are encouraged to integrate stronger safety measures into daily operations, from enforcing seat belt policies to implementing real-time hazard monitoring for workers on foot.
Many construction fatalities stem from vehicle-related incidents, making this initiative especially relevant for contractors, project managers, and safety officers. One of the main takeaways is the push for comprehensive vehicle safety programs. These go beyond basic training and include structured policies on maintenance, inspections, and driver accountability.
Some key areas of focus include:
Stronger fleet management – Regular maintenance checks and vehicle inspections can prevent mechanical failures that contribute to accidents. OSHA encourages companies to document these processes to ensure compliance.
Clear traffic control plans – Many accidents occur because of poor visibility or confusion about worksite traffic flow. Defining designated paths for vehicles and pedestrians, using barriers, and setting speed limits can significantly reduce risk.
Driver training and accountability – Even experienced operators need refresher training, especially when working in high-risk environments. OSHA’s guidelines emphasize ongoing education on defensive driving, fatigue management, and hazard recognition.
Technology is also playing a bigger role in construction safety. Telematics and GPS tracking can provide real-time data on vehicle movements, helping companies identify dangerous behaviors like speeding or erratic driving. Cameras and sensors on equipment also improve visibility, reducing the risk of backing incidents or blind-spot collisions.
Preventing struck-by accidents
One of the most common—and preventable—construction site hazards is struck-by incidents. Workers on foot are often in close proximity to large equipment, increasing the chances of an accident. To address this, OSHA recommends enforcing no-go zones around active machinery, requiring high-visibility gear, and using communication signals to coordinate movements.
Employers are also encouraged to involve workers in safety planning. Those who operate vehicles or work near them daily have valuable input on potential risks and how to minimize them. Encouraging open communication about near-misses and concerns can help identify problems before they lead to serious injuries.
The impact on job site safety
With OSHA joining the Road to Zero Coalition, there’s a renewed focus on making work zones safer for everyone. This means construction companies can expect stronger enforcement of safety regulations and more resources for implementing best practices. Investing in proper training, equipment, and planning not only reduces accidents but also improves productivity and keeps projects on track.
For those in the industry, staying informed is key. Get the latest updates on construction safety by subscribing to Under the Hard Hat’s newsletter and following us on social media.
The ground shook along BC’s Sunshine Coast, rattling homes and sending a jolt of adrenaline through communities near Sechelt. A 5.1 magnitude earthquake hit the region on February 21, 2025—thankfully, with no reports of severe damage or injuries. But for a province perched on the edge of a major fault line, even a minor quake serves as a reminder of the inevitable: a much bigger one could be coming. While this latest tremor was relatively harmless, it raises an important question—how prepared is BC for a large-scale seismic event? Experts have long warned about “The Big One,” a potentially catastrophic megathrust earthquake expected along the Cascadia Subduction Zone. With infrastructure, emergency plans, and public preparedness on the line, the province faces an ongoing challenge: strengthening its defenses before a disaster strikes.
Quick look
A 5.1 magnitude earthquake struck near Sechelt, BC, on February 21, 2025, causing no damage but sparking renewed discussions about preparedness for “The Big One.”
BC sits on the Cascadia Subduction Zone, a fault line capable of producing a catastrophic megathrust earthquake that experts believe is overdue.
The province has strengthened seismic building codes, launched an early warning system, and promoted public safety drills, but retrofitting older structures remains challenging.
Residents and businesses are encouraged to secure heavy furniture, prepare emergency kits, and participate in earthquake drills to boost personal and community resilience.
What happened in Sechelt?
Sechelt, a small town located Northwest of Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.
Just before dawn on February 21, a 5.1 magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of Sechelt, BC. According to seismologists, the quake originated around 10 kilometers beneath the Earth’s surface. This relatively shallow tremor is why it was widely felt across the Sunshine Coast. Residents reported a sharp jolt followed by a brief rolling sensation, with some describing rattling windows and swaying light fixtures.
Despite the early morning shake-up, emergency officials quickly confirmed there were no reports of injuries or significant structural damage. The BC Emergency Info Service stated that the quake did not trigger a tsunami warning, and local authorities assured residents that critical infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and utilities, remained intact.
For many in the region, the earthquake served as a wake-up call, literally and figuratively. Some took to social media to share their experiences, with posts ranging from mild amusement to genuine concern about what a larger quake could mean. Meanwhile, officials reiterated the importance of earthquake preparedness, urging residents to review their emergency kits and have a safety plan.
What is ‘The Big One’?
Seismologists have warned for years that BC is due for a massive quake. The culprit? The Cascadia Subduction Zone, a fault line stretching from northern Vancouver Island to California, where the Juan de Fuca Plate slowly slides beneath the North American Plate. While this geological process is gradual, it can potentially unleash a catastrophic event known as “The Big One”—a massive megathrust earthquake that experts believe is overdue.
The last significant quake along the CSZ occurred on January 26, 1700, with an estimated magnitude of 8.7 to 9.2. This powerful earthquake caused the coastline to drop several feet, generating a tsunami that reached Japan. Historical records from Japan document an “orphan tsunami” that arrived without any preceding local quake, linking it to the CSZ event.
British Columbia’s coast is particularly vulnerable due to its proximity to this fault line. A megathrust earthquake in this region could result in prolonged ground shaking lasting several minutes, leading to widespread infrastructure damage, landslides, and a devastating tsunami. Communities along the west coast of Vancouver Island would have mere minutes to evacuate before tsunami waves, potentially up to 30 meters (98 feet) high, make landfall.
The potential human and economic toll of such an event is staggering. Understanding the risks associated with the CSZ underscores the urgency for comprehensive preparedness and resilient infrastructure to mitigate the impact when—not if—The Big One strikes.
Is BC prepared?
British Columbia knows the risks of earthquakes, but is it ready for a big one? Over the years, the province has stepped up its preparedness efforts, strengthening infrastructure, updating building codes, and rolling out public education programs. But with an event like a megathrust earthquake, even the best-laid plans will face a real-world test.
Building stronger to withstand shaking
BC has some of Canada’s strictest seismic building codes, designed to make structures more resilient to ground movement. The BC Building Code is regularly updated to reflect new research, with recent changes adding tougher seismic standards for new construction. The goal? To ensure buildings can endure moderate quakes without major damage—and keep standing during a big one. However, while newer structures are built with earthquakes in mind, many older buildings across the province remain vulnerable. Retrofitting efforts are ongoing, but they’re costly and take time.
Early warnings and emergency plans
One of BC’s newest defenses against earthquakes is the Canadian Earthquake Early Warning system, launched in 2024. This network of sensors detects initial seismic waves and sends alerts before the shaking starts—giving people precious seconds to drop, cover, and hold on. These alerts are now integrated into Canada’s National Public Alerting System, so people with mobile devices or access to emergency broadcasts can get a heads-up before the worst of a quake hits.
The province also invests heavily in public education. The Great British Columbia ShakeOut is an annual drill that encourages people to practice earthquake safety. PreparedBC, the province’s emergency preparedness program, provides guides on creating earthquake plans, building emergency kits, and securing homes against seismic shaking. The message is clear: personal preparedness could make all the difference when The Big One hits.
How BC is strengthening its earthquake readiness
On paper, BC has a strong earthquake preparedness strategy. Buildings are getting stronger, warning systems are in place, and emergency drills are routine. However, the reality is that no amount of preparation can entirely eliminate the risks of an earthquake with a magnitude of 9.0.
That’s why British Columbia is taking significant steps to bolster its defenses against potential major earthquakes. From Vancouver’s proactive strategies to province-wide advancements in building standards and early warning systems, here’s how BC is gearing up for seismic events.
The University of British Columbia (UBC) has initiated programs like Earthquake Day in collaboration with the City of Vancouver and the Vancouver Public Library. This event brings together researchers, professionals, and the public to discuss earthquake preparedness, raise awareness, and foster a culture of readiness, collaboration, and public engagement.
Enhancing building resilience
Considering seismic risks, BC has updated its building codes to ensure new constructions can withstand significant ground shaking. The 2024 BC Building Code, effective March 10, 2025, introduces stricter seismic design requirements. These updates focus on bracing requirements for lateral loads from wind and earthquakes, reflecting the province’s high seismic hazard values. Builders and designers are encouraged to familiarize themselves with these changes to enhance structural resilience.
Seismic retrofitting is a priority for existing structures, especially older buildings and schools. The province has developed performance-based methodologies to assess and upgrade these buildings, ensuring they meet current safety standards. These retrofitting efforts aim to provide cost-effective solutions to enhance the safety of at-risk structures.
Implementing early warning systems
A crucial component of BC’s earthquake preparedness is the implementation of early warning systems. In August 2024, Natural Resources Canada launched the Canadian Earthquake Early Warning (EEW) system in British Columbia. This system detects initial seismic waves and provides alerts through the National Public Alerting System, offering valuable seconds for individuals and organizations to take protective actions before stronger shaking occurs.
In addition, local innovations like ShakeAlarm, an on-site early warning system developed in Vancouver, have been deployed to protect critical infrastructure. For instance, since 2009, ShakeAlarm has been safeguarding the George Massey Tunnel by automatically initiating protective measures upon detecting seismic activity.
Through these comprehensive efforts—community engagement, stringent building codes, retrofitting initiatives, and advanced warning systems—BC is actively enhancing its earthquake readiness to protect its residents and infrastructure from future seismic events.
Bottom line
The February 21 quake might not have been The Big One, but it is a reminder that BC sits on the edge of one of the most seismically active zones in the world. Today’s steps—updating infrastructure, reinforcing emergency plans, or simply educating ourselves—will determine how well we withstand the inevitable.
Staying prepared means staying informed. Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media for the latest updates on earthquake safety, industry insights, and practical tips to protect you and your community.
Construction is an overwhelmingly male-dominated industry. In 2024, just 11.2% of US construction workers were female, and in California, only 4% of building trades apprentices were women. To address this imbalance and create conditions conducive to women working in the industry, the California Department of Industrial Relations (DIR) has announced $13 million in funding available through the Equal Representation in Construction Apprenticeship (ERiCA) grant.
The grant, managed by the Division of Apprenticeship Standards (DAS), represents the second round of funding to expand opportunities for women, non-binary individuals, and other underrepresented groups in the construction industry.
In a press release, DIR director Katie Hagen said, “DIR’s apprenticeship programs embody California’s commitment to fostering a diverse workforce that enhances productivity and strengthens the economy. The grant funding announced today will continue our efforts to advance equity and inclusion while meeting critical labor market demands in high-need industries.”
Rather than simply focusing on ramped-up recruitment efforts, the ERiCA grant strives to help prospective female applicants address barriers to joining apprenticeship programs, such as childcare costs. The grant program assists working mothers with childcare costs by providing funding for childcare and babysitting services. By reducing or removing this barrier to training in the skilled trades, DIR can make it easier for women to pursue apprenticeship programs.
The ERiCA grant also provides funding to create a more welcoming, inclusive environment for women when they reach the job site. This training is crucial because, according to a 2021 survey, 26.5% of respondents experienced frequent harassment for being a woman, and 23.6% experienced “frequent sexual harassment.” This funding covers mentoring, mental health support, and anti-harassment training for all personnel on the construction site, from apprentices and laborers to contractors and managers.
Adele Burnes, acting chief of the DAS, said the grant would help level the playing field. “Building trades apprenticeships offer a significant opportunity for economic mobility,” she said. “This grant ensures that we are breaking down barriers and building awareness among women, non-binary individuals, and underrepresented populations in construction careers.”
In the first round of the ERiCA grant, $25 million of funding was shared between 19 programs, including Childcare Leading to Inclusion in Construction and Hard Hat Women’s Equity Education Initiative.
Those wishing to apply for the grant can now apply for the second round of grant funding by visiting https://www.dir.ca.gov/DAS/Grants/ERICA.html.
OSHA has introduced significant updates to its Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) standards for the construction industry, focusing on employee protection. The new rule clarifies employers’ responsibilities regarding PPE fit, ensuring that it is suitable for each worker regardless of gender, body type, or physical attributes. This shift addresses long-standing issues in the construction field, where ill-fitting gear has led to reduced safety and productivity.
What this means for employers
Under the updated guidelines, employers must ensure that all PPE—whether hard hats, gloves, safety glasses, or harnesses—fits properly and provides adequate protection for every worker. Generic “one-size-fits-all” solutions are no longer acceptable. Instead, employers will need to assess each worker’s needs and provide gear that accommodates variations in size and shape. This change strengthens worker safety and reduces the risk of injuries caused by poorly fitted equipment, such as slipping harnesses or oversized gloves.
One critical aspect of the rule is the inclusion of gender-specific PPE. Historically, most PPE was designed for male workers, leaving female workers with ill-fitting gear. The new standards require employers to address this disparity, ensuring that all workers—regardless of gender—have access to protective equipment that fits correctly. By doing so, OSHA is pushing for a safer, more inclusive work environment.
The changes present new challenges for employers in sourcing and maintaining compliant PPE. Companies must review their existing safety programs and potentially expand their inventory to include a wider range of sizes and styles. Training programs may also need updates to educate supervisors on evaluating proper fit and addressing worker concerns about PPE. These adjustments may require upfront costs but can lead to long-term benefits by reducing workplace injuries and the associated downtime and legal risks.
OSHA has emphasized enforcing these new standards, signaling to employers that compliance is not optional. Failing to provide correctly fitting PPE could result in citations, fines, or liability in the event of an accident. For companies operating in construction, where the risks are already high, meeting these standards is critical in safeguarding their workforce and reputation.
The updated rule reflects a broader focus on worker safety and inclusion in the industry. By addressing the diverse needs of today’s workforce, OSHA is setting a precedent for other industries to follow. For workers, the changes offer reassurance that their safety and comfort are being prioritized, paving the way for a healthier, more productive job site.
For more articles like this, subscribe to our newsletter at Under the Hard Hat, and stay updated on construction regulations, safety standards, and industry insights.
The Pickering Nuclear Generating Station is one of the world’s largest nuclear facilities, generating around 14% of Ontario’s electricity. Officials hope that the refurbishment will help Ontario meet the needs of a rapidly growing population—by current estimates, the province will see a 75% increase in energy needs by 2050. In addition to creating power, the Pickering Nuclear Generating Station will also produce Cobalt-60 isotopes used in medical equipment sterilization and cancer treatments.
OPG has obtained government authorization to sign a $2.1 billion contract with CanAtom, a joint venture of AECON and AtkinsRéalis. The nuclear engineering company will be responsible for early work, including engineering, procurement of long-lead components, and planning the construction of the retube, feeder, and boiler replacement of Pickering Nuclear Generating Station units 5-8. This early-stage work with CanAtom will create 2,400 jobs.
In a statement, Minister of Energy and Electrification Stephen Lecce said, “The Pickering Nuclear Generating Station has powered cities and towns across Ontario with affordable, reliable, and zero-emissions electricity for more than 50 years, supporting thousands of jobs in the process. This refurbishment would protect those good paying jobs and provide the affordable and reliable power our province will need for decades to come.”
According to the Conference Board of Canada, the project is expected to be completed by the mid-2030s. The refurbishments and increased capacity will create approximately 11,000 jobs annually and contribute $19.4 billion to the Ontario economy. The project takes an Ontario-first approach, supporting local industries, communities, and economies by ensuring that 90% of the refurbishment parts and materials are sourced from within the province.
The Ontario government will contribute a total of $6.2 billion to the refurbishment of Pickering Nuclear Generating Station through its investment in this project phase. OPG will also spend $100 million with Indigenous companies during the refurbishment project’s lifespan to ensure economic benefits are shared with First Nations communities hosting the project.
The project requires approval from the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission before proceeding.
Under the Hard Hat delivers real conversations about safety, mental health, tech, and growth in construction. Join our newsletter to stay connected, informed, and ahead—straight from industry pros who’ve been there.
