Ontario’s Darlington nuclear project is expected to strengthen local manufacturing, support skilled jobs and contribute more than $110 million to the provincial economy.
SCARBOROUGH, Ontario — The Ontario government has awarded 14 contracts to manufacturers across the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area (GTHA) to supply critical components for the Darlington New Nuclear Project, which is set to house the first small modular reactor (SMR) in the G7.
Announced on November 6, 2026, the contracts will support local employment, strengthen domestic supply chains and contribute more than $110 million to Ontario’s gross domestic product, according to the provincial government.
The agreements cover essential equipment and materials, including specialized steel, transformers, pumps and concrete, as Ontario expands its nuclear energy infrastructure.
Ontario Manufacturers Secure Major Nuclear Supply Contracts
The contracts represent a significant opportunity for Ontario manufacturers facing economic uncertainty and U.S. trade tariffs.
Scarborough-based Armstrong Fluid Technology has secured a $3.9 million agreement to supply pumps and a pumphouse enclosure for the project.
Oakville-based Hooper Welding will provide structural steel components, while Toronto-based St. Mary’s Cement will supply concrete and operate a high-density concrete batching facility.
More than 100 Canadian companies have already signed agreements with Ontario Power Generation (OPG) to support the development.
“By being first in the G7 to build small modular reactors, Ontario is securing a first-mover advantage that translates into real contracts and good-paying jobs,” said Stephen Lecce, Minister of Energy and Mines. “Ontario industries are emerging at the centre of the global nuclear build-out, and this leadership is delivering wins for Canada’s economy and vital contracts for Canadian businesses. Nuclear energy is tariff-proof, which is why we are building at scale and for future generations. Our government’s efforts are turning best-in-class nuclear expertise into a competitive advantage, creating more than 18,000 jobs when we need them most.”
Local Investment Creates Opportunities for Skilled Workers
The government expects the project to create employment opportunities across manufacturing, engineering, construction and specialized trades.
Ontario has also worked with OPG to direct approximately 80 per cent of project spending toward provincial businesses.
The development is expected to sustain an estimated 3,800 highly skilled jobs over 65 years through construction, operations and maintenance.
Nicolle Butcher, President and CEO of OPG, highlighted the project’s broader economic significance.
“The first-of-a-kind Darlington New Nuclear Project is powering Ontario’s future. By building the G7’s first small modular reactor, we are creating thousands of high-value jobs, strengthening our industrial base, supporting businesses in communities across the province, and cementing Ontario’s place as a global nuclear leader.”
Darlington SMRs Expected to Power 1.2 Million Homes
The Darlington development will eventually include four small modular reactors with a combined generating capacity of 1,200 megawatts.
According to provincial projections, the reactors will produce enough electricity to power approximately 1.2 million homes.
Construction, operation and maintenance of the four units are projected to contribute $38.5 billion to Canada’s GDP over 65 years.
The project has received major public investment commitments, including $1 billion from Ontario through the Building Ontario Fund and $2 billion from the federal government through the Canada Growth Fund.
Growing Electricity Demand Drives Nuclear Expansion
Ontario’s Independent Electricity System Operator forecasts that provincial electricity demand could increase by as much as 90 per cent by 2050.
Population growth, housing development, transportation electrification and advanced manufacturing are among the major factors driving the anticipated increase.
Nuclear generation currently supplies approximately half of Ontario’s electricity, making it a central component of the province’s long-term energy strategy.
Ontario Seeks Global Leadership in Nuclear Manufacturing
The Darlington project is also expected to strengthen Ontario’s position in international nuclear supply chains.
Velan is planning a Durham Region manufacturing facility to produce safety valves for European SMR projects, while BWXT Canada has reached an agreement to manufacture nuclear components in Ontario for Poland.
These developments reflect growing international demand for nuclear technology and specialized manufacturing expertise.
The provincial government approved OPG’s plan to begin construction of the first Darlington SMR in 2025.
As the project advances, Ontario is positioning nuclear development as both an electricity supply solution and an industrial investment strategy designed to support Canadian businesses, skilled employment and long-term economic growth.
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