CNSC Extends Operating Licences for Pickering A and B Nuclear Generating Stations

OTTAWA, ONTARIO--(Marketwired - June 24, 2013) - The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) announced today its decision to extend for a period of two months the power reactor operating licences issued to Ontario Power Generation Inc. (OPG) for the Pickering A and B Nuclear Generating Stations. The current licences, which were set to expire on June 30, 2013, will be amended and remain valid until August 31, 2013.

In its licence renewal application, OPG requested that the two licences be combined into a one-site licence and renewed for a period of five years. Based on the information presented, the Commission has decided that it requires more time to render its decision. Given the imminent licence expiry, the Commission has determined that a two-month licence extension is appropriate to allow it sufficient time to deliberate and carefully consider all of the information on the record before issuing a final decision.

In making its decision, the Commission considered information presented at a public hearing held on February 20, 2013 in Ottawa, Ontario and from May 29-31, 2013 in Pickering, Ontario. During the public hearing, the Commission received submissions from OPG and 136 intervenors, as well as recommendations from CNSC staff.

The CNSC regulates the use of nuclear energy and materials to protect the health, safety and security of Canadians and the environment; and to implement Canada's international commitments on the peaceful use of nuclear energy.