OTARIO-The Ontario government says it is investing $19.5 million to help establish the new Centre for Fusion Energy.
“Ontario’s world-renowned researchers are driving the energy sector into a new era of clean energy,” said Nolan Quinn, Minister of Colleges, Universities, Research Excellence and Security. “Through this investment, our government is leveraging our province’s position as a nuclear powerhouse to fuel fusion energy discoveries that will advance our industries, build our energy workforce and protect Ontario.”
With the creation of the Centre for Fusion Energy, Ontario will accelerate innovation in the growing fusion energy sector, ensuring Ontario stays at the forefront of research. The Centre will also facilitate new academic and industry partnerships, create new hands-on educational opportunities and stimulate economic and research activity across the province.
Officials say Ontario is an advanced nuclear operator that embraces the first mover advantage, starting with leveraging Canadian CANDU technology over 50 years ago to building the G7’s first Small Modular Reactor today,” said Stephen Lecce, Minister of Energy and Mines. “As fusion energy represents the next frontier in clean 24/7 power, Ontario is again leading the way with Ontario Power Generation delivering the Centre for Fusion Energy. Ontario is doubling down on our nuclear advantage by investing in the development of fusion nuclear power — an almost inexhaustible source of emission-free energy for future generations.”
The Centre is being developed in partnership with the federal government, the Stellarex Group Limited, Atomic Energy of Canada Limited (AECL), and Ontario Power Generation (OPG). The federal government, through AECL, is investing $33 million and Stellarex intends to contribute up to $39 million to the Centre. Ontario entered into a memorandum of understanding with the OPG, who will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of the project on behalf of the province.
“Ontario’s nuclear expertise and its unique global competitive advantages make Canada an ideal place to accelerate fusion energy development. With our provincial and federal government partners, Stellarex will strengthen Canada’s fusion energy know‑how, build a fusion energy prototype, and prepare the fusion-ready workforce needed to deliver fusion power to the grid.” said Spencer Pitcher, Chief Executive Officer-designate, Stellarex
“Through a new Centre for Fusion Energy, Canada and Ontario are taking another step forward to strengthen our nuclear energy sector,” said Tim Hodgson, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources. “Our new government is proud to work with the province to support Canadian investments that will broaden our clean energy research and grow our fusion energy sector.”
