The work is for the definition phase for the retube and feeder replacement (RFR) project at Darlington. The overall RFR Project consists of two phases – a definition phase from 2012 to 2016 and an execution phase from 2016 to 2023. The definition phase includes the construction of a full-scale reactor mock-up to simulate key elements of the refurbishment work, and the development, procurement and testing of specialised tooling required for the Project. It also includes the development of a detailed scope, schedule and budget for the execution phase, as well as procurement of reactor components for the first unit to be refurbished.
The total value of the definition phase is estimated at more than CA$600m. The value of the execution phase will be determined once the definition phase is completed.
The execution phase, which will be carried out after the OPG Board and the joint venture agree to transition from the definition phase, will involve the refurbishment of all four reactor cores on a sequential basis using the tools and methods that were developed and tested during the project’s definition phase.
“We are pleased to once again be partnered with Aecon. We have a great history of working together and successfully delivering projects,” said SNC-Lavalin Group executive vice-president Patrick Lamarre. “This award demonstrates OPG’s confidence in this team and our capabilities in the nuclear industry. The decision by OPG to approach this project in two phases is consistent with SNC-Lavalin’s best practices on project execution for large scale projects. Having an in-depth definition phase validates and supports the planning of the execution phase.”
“This is a significant step for our refurbishment project,” said OPG’s executive vice president of nuclear projects Albert Sweetnam. “The Darlington Nuclear Generating Station currently powers one out of every five homes in Ontario and is an important part of the energy mix in the province. The refurbishment project will generate more than 6,000 direct and indirect jobs and local spin off benefits in Durham Region and across Ontario. After refurbishment the Darlington Nuclear Generating Station will continue to provide safe, clean, reliable base load electricity for the next 25 to 30 years.”
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