Community Overview
The City of Pickering is located in Durham Region along the north shore of Lake Ontario, immediately east of Toronto.
With a population of approximately 100,000 residents, Pickering is a dynamic and growing community that has played a central role in Ontario’s electricity system for decades.
Nuclear Presence
Pickering is one of Canada’s long-standing nuclear host communities and is home to the Pickering Nuclear Generating Station, operated by Ontario Power Generation.
- Pickering Nuclear Generating Station – A multi-unit CANDU facility that has provided reliable, emissions-free electricity to Ontario for over 50 years and remains a cornerstone of the province’s power system
The Pickering site is currently in a period of transition. The Province of Ontario has approved plans to proceed with the refurbishment of Units 5 to 8, which—pending regulatory approvals—would extend the life of the station for several decades.
Planning, regulatory review, and detailed project definition activities are currently underway, with refurbishment expected to begin later this decade.
Together, these activities reflect Pickering’s role in supporting both the long-term operation and the responsible renewal of major nuclear infrastructure within Canada’s energy system.
Role in Supporting the Nuclear Sector
As a nuclear host community, Pickering:
- Has supported safe and reliable nuclear operations for decades
- Works closely with industry, regulators, and all levels of government
- Plays an important role in discussions related to refurbishment, continued operations, and future site planning
- Brings experience in managing community engagement around major infrastructure transitions
Pickering’s experience highlights the important role host communities play not only in operating nuclear facilities, but also in planning for their future and long-term stewardship.
Members
Member Communities
Popular Links