The Municipality of Port Hope is sharing that Ontario Power Generation (OPG) has submitted its Initial Project Description (IPD) for the proposed New Nuclear project at the Wesleyville site in Port Hope to the Impact Assessment Agency of Canada (IAAC). The IPD and its summaries are now available on the IAAC website for public review and comment.
This submission marks an important regulatory milestone and the first step in the federal impact assessment process. The Impact Assessment process, led by IAAC in collaboration with the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission, will examine potential environmental and social impacts and identify ways to mitigate adverse effects. It also provides an opportunity for Rights-holding First Nations Indigenous communities, the Municipality, and the public to share feedback and perspectives.
OPG developed the IPD in partnership with the Michi-Saagiig Anishnaabeg Nations of the Williams Treaties First Nations, incorporating input from Elders and community members with traditional knowledge of the area. The document also reflects early engagement with the Municipality of Port Hope and local residents.
This is the initial stage of a multi-year, multi-phased Impact Assessment process.
For more information on the impact assessment process or to submit comments, please visit the Impact Assessment Agency of Canada website. The IAAC is also hosting a series of information sessions – both in person and online – to provide additional details and answer questions. See website for details.
Printed copies of the IPD and its summaries will also be available at the following locations:
OPG Nuclear Discovery Centre, 115 Toronto Rd., Port Hope ON L1A 3S4
Municipality of Port Hope Town Hall, 56 Queen St., Port Hope ON L1A 3Z9
Port Hope Public Library, Mary J. Benson Branch, 31 Queen St., Port Hope ON L1A 2Y8
Northumberland County Headquarters, 555 Courthouse Rd., Cobourg, ON K9A 5J6
Background
In early 2025, the Ontario government requested that OPG explore new nuclear generation at Wesleyville to help meet the province’s growing electricity needs. The Wesleyville site is zoned for electricity generation and maintained by OPG, with access to existing transmission lines and transportation infrastructure. The IPD considers a range of nuclear technologies that could deliver up to 10,000 MWe—enough to power approximately 10 million homes.
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
