ABB Technology is modernising Bruce Power nuclear units to support low-carbon energy growth in Canada.
Global technology leader in electrification and automation, ABB, has been selected by Bruce Power to supply advanced excitation technology that will help extend the life, reliability and efficiency of eight units at the Bruce Nuclear Generating Station in Ontario, one of Canada’s largest sources of low-carbon electricity.
The multi-year contract will see ABB modernise the existing excitation systems, which contribute to stable power generation, at both Bruce A and Bruce B stations. Replacing the facility’s infrastructure with ABB’s UNITROL® 6000 X-power technology will enable improved reliability and operational efficiency across the units, supporting safe and dependable power generation for the Canadian energy market.
Engineered to meet the demanding requirements of generators in nuclear power plants, UNITROL excitation systems deliver control performance to ensure synchronous machines operate safely and in full compliance with grid codes. Backed by validated models and advanced simulation services, they are delivered out of ABB’s Centre of Excellence in Montreal, which has close to five decades of experience in the nuclear market.
Nuclear energy, which the Government of Canada views as an important component of a diversified energy mix, currently supplies approximately 15% of the country’s electricity. It also plays a central role in maintaining Ontario’s power system, with nuclear providing 53% of the province’s electricity mix in 2024.
James Scongack, chief operating officer and executive vice-president at Bruce Power, said: “Bruce Power and ABB are coming together on this made-in-Canada contract to upgrade our excitation systems and deliver clean, reliable energy to the people of Ontario for decades to come. This contract supports good jobs, the economy and Canada’s energy independence.”
ABB employs 3,300 people in Canada with eight locations based in Ontario. Its factory in the neighbouring province of Quebec has been manufacturing excitation systems for more than five decades and the close proximity of field service engineers will enable rapid regional response support.
“ABB is proud to be a partner in Bruce Power’s long-term investment in the future of low-carbon energy in Canada,” said Danilo Moresco, head of power reliability at ABB’s energy industries division. “The continued global demand for secure, low-carbon electricity means that the modernisation and life extension of critical nuclear infrastructure is essential and we remain dedicated to supporting the energy transition through technology innovation and more sustainable solutions,” said Moresco.
As part of Bruce Power’s Major Component Replacement Project, Units 3-8 at the Bruce Nuclear Generating Station are scheduled to be refurbished by 2033. A renewed Unit 6 was successfully returned to service in 2023 ahead of schedule and budget, while Unit 3 and Unit 4 outages remain on track. Engineering and design for the excitation project will take place over the next two years, with the first systems expected on site by the end of 2027.
