Hydro One selects AtkinsRéalis to expand substation for SMRs
AI Article Summary
Hydro One has appointed AtkinsRéalis as the owner's engineer for expanding the Bowmanville Switching Station near the Darlington Nuclear Generating Station. This expansion is vital for connecting four small modular reactors (SMRs) that Ontario Power Generation plans to build. The project aims to meet the increasing electricity demands in Toronto and its vicinity and involves creating a new 500-kV switchyard, new breakers, and control structures. The work is designed to alleviate power congestion and enhance grid capacity before the SMRs become operational.
What This Means for Canadian Contractors
This project shows how Canadian contractors can play a vital role in expanding critical infrastructure to support new nuclear energy developments. For Canadian builders, this means potential opportunities in engineering and construction sectors, especially those specializing in substations and grid enhancements. The project's timelines will necessitate careful planning to ensure synchronization with the SMRs' deployment schedules, highlighting the importance of maintaining a reliable supply chain.