Bruce Power And ABB Sign Made-In-Canada Contract To Modernize Excitation Systems And Deliver Clean, Reliable Energy And Drive The Economy

Bruce Power has signed multi-year contracts with ABB to supply advanced excitation technology to help extend the life, reliability and efficiency of its eight operating units as they power Ontario for decades to come.

The multi-year contracts will see ABB modernize the existing excitation systems, which contribute to stable power generation at Bruce Power’s Bruce A and Bruce B stations. Replacing the facility’s infrastructure with ABB’s UNITROL 6000 X-power technology will enable improved reliability and operational efficiency across the units, supporting safe and dependable power generation for the Ontario energy market.

“This made-in-Canada partnership between Bruce Power and ABB strengthens Ontario’s position as a global leader in clean, reliable nuclear energy,” said Stephen Lecce, Minister of Energy and Mines. “Bruce Power is refurbishing and modernizing its fleet on-time and on-budget, while protecting Ontario jobs and driving more investment here at home.”

Engineered to meet the demanding requirements of generators in nuclear power plants, UNITROL excitation systems deliver control performance to ensure synchronous machines operate safely and in full compliance with grid codes. ABB employs 3,300 people in Canada with eight locations based in Ontario. Engineering and design for the excitation project will take place over the next two years, with the first systems expected on site by the end of 2027 and deliveries spanning to 2033.

“Bruce Power and ABB are coming together on this made-in-Canada contract to upgrade our excitation systems and deliver clean, reliable energy to the people of Ontario for decades to come,” said James Scongack, Bruce Power’s Chief Operating Officer and Executive Vice-President. “This contract supports good jobs, the economy, and Canada’s energy independence.”

ABB was selected by Bruce Power for its expertise in the sector and has been manufacturing excitation systems for more than five decades.

“ABB is proud to be a partner in Bruce Power’s long-term investment in the future of low-carbon energy in Canada,” said Danilo Moresco, Head of Power Reliability at ABB’s Energy Industries division. “The continued global demand for secure, low-carbon electricity means that the modernization and life extension of critical nuclear infrastructure is essential, and we remain dedicated to supporting the energy transition through technology innovation and more sustainable solutions.”

As part of Bruce Power’s Major Component Replacement Project, Units 3-8 at the Bruce Nuclear Generating Station will be refurbished by 2033, with the possibility of refurbishments of Units 1 and 2 in the future. A renewed Unit 6 was successfully returned to service in 2023 ahead of schedule and budget, while Unit 3 and Unit 4 outages remain on plan.