Ontario First Nations Partner with Governments on Nuclear Reactor Ownership

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Several First Nations in Ontario have entered a historic partnership with federal and provincial governments to co-own a new nuclear reactor, marking a significant step in economic reconciliation and energy production.

OTTAWA — A groundbreaking partnership has emerged between several Ontario First Nations and the federal and provincial governments, paving the way for these Indigenous communities to become stakeholders in a new nuclear reactor. The agreement involves loan guarantees amounting to $700 million, aimed at transforming into equity for one of the four small modular reactors being constructed at the Darlington New Nuclear Project in Bowmanville, Ontario, under the management of Ontario Power Generation. Energy and Mines Minister Stephen Lecce highlighted that this marks the first instance of an equity partnership involving First Nations in a nuclear reactor within Canada. He emphasized that this investment will grant the First Nations a minority share in the facility, contributing to economic reconciliation efforts.
The seven Williams Treaties First Nations, which are Indigenous communities situated near Lake Ontario and Lake Simcoe, include Alderville First Nation, Curve Lake First Nation, Hiawatha First Nation, Scugog Island First Nation, Chippewas of Beausoleil First Nation, Chippewas of Georgina Island First Nation, and the Chippewas of Rama First Nation. The formal announcement regarding this partnership is scheduled for Tuesday morning. The Chiefs representing the Williams Treaties First Nations have characterized the agreement as a "historic step forward."
In a collective statement, the chiefs remarked, "Through this investment, we are not only creating opportunities for our own communities – we are helping advance a project that will play an important role in meeting Ontario and Canada’s growing energy needs." They further noted that this investment showcases the potential for First Nations to meaningfully engage in projects occurring within their territories, enabling them to act not just as rights holders but also as investors, partners, and key players in the long-term success of the initiative.
The initial small modular reactor is currently under construction at the Darlington power plant. Minister Lecce stated, "After breaking ground on the first SMR in the G7, our government is taking another historic step, helping to bring First Nations in as full partners in this once-in-a-generation project." The broader project, which encompasses four small modular reactors, is projected to cost approximately $21 billion. The first reactor is anticipated to be completed by the year 2030. Once operational, the small modular reactors are expected to generate 1,200 megawatts of power, sufficient to supply electricity to 1.2 million homes.

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