B.C.-based company signs agreement to develop Ontario fusion power

HURON, ONT. — Clean fusion power could be on the horizon for Canada.

Bruce Power, General Fusion and the Nuclear Innovation Institute (NII) announced they have signed an agreement to advance a net-zero future. The groups stated they aim to progress fusion energy in Ontario’s “Clean Energy Frontier” region of Bruce, Grey and Huron.

The trio stated they plan to draw on existing clean energy technologies, skills and expertise in the region to develop a go-forward strategy. They will also lead stakeholder and public outreach activities to raise awareness of the transformative potential of powering Canadian homes, businesses and industry with zero-carbon, reliable and affordable fusion energy.

General Fusion, a B.C.-based fusion energy technology developer, is looking to confirm the performance and economics of its magnetized target fusion technology at a power-plant-relevant scale by building a fusion demonstration plant. They expect the plant to be operational in 2025. General Fusion stated the project puts the company on course to bring clean fusion energy into the world’s energy systems by the early 2030s.

“This landmark MOU provides a framework in which Canada’s energy leaders can benefit from each other’s technology innovations and expertise to lead the way in adopting fusion power in Ontario and across Canada,” said Christofer Mowry, CEO of General Fusion, in a statement. “We look forward to advancing this partnership to help meet Canada’s climate targets and the increasing electricity needs of Canadians.”

For Bruce Power, the MOU represents one way the company is looking to advance new clean energy technologies.

“In order to achieve a net-zero future here in Ontario, and Canada, we need to continue expanding the clean electricity production of our existing facilities and will need innovation as part of the future,” said Mike Rencheck, president and CEO, Bruce Power. “Our partnership will explore these innovations and leverage the established capability in this region as a home to new technologies that will contribute to a carbon-free future.”