ABB has secured a contract with Bruce Power to supply advanced excitation technology, aimed at extending the life, reliability, and efficiency of eight units at the Bruce Nuclear Generating Station in Ontario. This station is one of Canada’s largest sources of low-carbon electricity. The multi-year contract, booked in the fourth quarter of 2025, underscores ABB’s expertise in nuclear sector excitation systems and its leadership within the North American market. Financial details have not been disclosed.
The project involves modernising existing excitation systems at both Bruce A and Bruce B stations. By implementing ABB’s UNITROL 6000 X-power technology, the initiative will enhance reliability and operational efficiency across the units, supporting safe and dependable power generation for the Canadian energy market. UNITROL excitation systems are engineered to meet the stringent requirements of nuclear power plants, ensuring synchronous machines operate safely and comply with grid codes. These systems are developed at ABB’s Centre of Excellence in Montreal, which has nearly five decades of experience in the nuclear sector.
Nuclear energy is a vital component of Canada’s diversified energy strategy, supplying approximately 15 percent of the country’s electricity. In Ontario, nuclear power contributes 53 percent to the province’s electricity mix. This project aligns with Bruce Power’s Major Component Replacement Project, which includes refurbishing Units 3-8 by 2033. A renewed Unit 6 returned to service in 2023, ahead of schedule and budget, while Units 3 and 4 outages remain on track. Engineering and design for the excitation project will occur over the next two years, with the first systems expected on-site by the end of 2027.
James Scongack, Chief Operating Officer and Executive Vice-President at Bruce Power, stated, “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.” Stephen Lecce, Minister of Energy and Mines, remarked, “This made-in-Canada partnership strengthens Ontario’s position as a global leader in clean, reliable nuclear energy.”
Danilo Moresco, Head of Power Reliability at ABB’s Energy Industries division, commented, “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.”
