Westinghouse Electric Company and Aecon have announced the signing of two significant agreements to collaborate on the development and deployment of advanced nuclear new-build projects in Canada and internationally. These agreements set the stage for leveraging their expertise in nuclear technology and infrastructure to address growing global energy demands.
Under a Strategic Cooperation Agreement, the two companies will explore opportunities for constructing AP1000® power plants across Canada. A single four-unit AP1000 project could contribute an estimated CAD 28.7 billion to Canada’s GDP. Additionally, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) enables Aecon to expand its capabilities in supplying AP1000 modules and components, building on its prior experience with projects such as the Vogtle plant in the United States.
Commitment to Clean, Reliable Energy in Ontario
“Nuclear energy is vital to Ontario’s future, providing reliable, affordable, and carbon-free power to meet rising energy demands,” said Stephen Lecce, Ontario’s Minister of Energy and Electrification. “This partnership underscores the importance of strategic collaboration in nuclear development to secure energy needs, create jobs, and strengthen the supply chain, positioning Ontario as a leader in clean energy.”
Headquartered in Ontario, Aecon is a prominent North American construction and infrastructure company with deep expertise in nuclear projects. The company will collaborate with Westinghouse to accelerate the deployment of advanced nuclear technologies, addressing Canada’s economic, environmental, and energy security priorities.
Building Infrastructure for Clean Energy
“Aecon’s nuclear expertise, combined with our advanced fabrication and manufacturing capabilities, positions us at the forefront of delivering critical infrastructure for clean energy,” said Aaron Johnson, Senior Vice President of Aecon Nuclear. “We are proud to support the energy transition by ensuring the supply of clean, reliable, and affordable electricity. These agreements with Westinghouse reinforce our commitment to advancing nuclear technology for the benefit of future generations.”
Dan Lipman, President of Westinghouse Energy Systems, emphasized the economic benefits of the collaboration. “Each four-unit AP1000 project in Canada could create nearly 8,000 jobs during construction and an additional 12,000 full-time positions for ongoing operations. This partnership showcases our dedication to delivering significant local economic impact while advancing nuclear innovation.”
A Proven Technology for Canada’s Energy Future
With Canada’s urgent need for new nuclear generation, the AP1000 reactor stands out as a proven, operational Generation III+ technology capable of meeting the country’s energy goals by 2035. Westinghouse projects the deployment of 18 AP1000 units globally by the end of the decade, including in Poland, Ukraine, Bulgaria, the UK, India, and North America.
John Gorman, President of Westinghouse Canada, highlighted the readiness of the AP1000 technology: “This agreement strengthens our ability to rapidly deploy advanced nuclear solutions in Canada. Partnering with Aecon ensures a seamless integration of construction and supply chain resources to meet Canada’s energy requirements.”
Westinghouse’s collaborations with Canadian firms continue to expand opportunities for advanced nuclear technologies worldwide. Each AP1000 unit constructed outside Canada could generate approximately CAD 1 billion in GDP for the Canadian economy through local supplier involvement.
As Canada aims to lead the global clean energy transition, the Westinghouse-Aecon partnership exemplifies a strategic approach to delivering nuclear energy solutions that are scalable, sustainable, and economically impactful.
