Bruce Power is expected to launch commercial operations in September at its new on-site Hot Cell facility in Kincardine.
Bruce Power has received regulatory approval from the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission to perform Target Carrier Removal directly on site.
The specialized hot cell facility uses remote-handling technology to process irradiated materials while protecting staff from radiation exposure. Specifically, it will handle a key step in producing lutetium-177, a medical isotope used worldwide in the treatment of prostate cancer and a growing number of precision cancer therapies. By processing materials on site, the facility aims to lower emissions, reduce transit requirements, and boost worker safety.
"This approval represents another transformational step in Bruce Power's journey to improve lives through the production of cancer-fighting medical isotopes," said James Scongack, Chief Operating Officer and Executive Vice-President, Bruce Power. "With the hot cell now licensed and approved for operations, we are strengthening Ontario's integrated isotope supply chain, increasing efficiency, and expanding our ability to deliver cancer-fighting medical isotopes to patients around the world. This achievement reflects years of innovation, collaboration and dedication from our employees, partners and regulators, and reinforces Canada's position as a global leader in isotope production."
The new hot cell is part of a broader isotope production expansion effort at Bruce Power, which also includes an additional IPS in Unit 6.
“This achievement demonstrates how rural Ontario continues to lead in some of the world's most advanced nuclear technologies," said Lisa Thompson, MPP for Huron-Bruce and Minister of Rural Affairs. "The approval for operation of Bruce Power's hot cell is not only an investment in our region's economic future, but also a testament to the skilled workforce, strong communities and spirit of innovation that define Bruce, Grey and Huron counties.”
Revenue from the project supports the local Gamzook’aamin aakoziwin partnership with the Saugeen Ojibway Nation.
Construction of the hot cell was completed earlier this year, through a Canadian collaboration involving Bruce Power, Kinectrics, Bird Construction and a broad cross-functional team from across Bruce Power's operations, engineering, licensing, radiation protection, safety and business development organizations.
