Bruce Power marked a major milestone this week with the installation of an Isotope Production System (IPS) in Unit 6, ensuring a stable supply of Canadian-made medical isotopes for the global health-care community.
Federal Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, the Hon. Tim Hodgson, visited the Bruce Power site on Tuesday to make the announcement, highlighting the importance of Ontario’s nuclear industry.
“Ontario’s nuclear industry is one of our best made-in-Canada energy success stories, and continues to be a world leader in 2025,” Hodgson said. “Almost 60 per cent of Ontario’s electricity comes from nuclear, and the sector employs more than 89,000 Canadians and adds $22 billion to our economy each year. In addition, Canadian Candu reactors produce a significant supply of the world’s medical isotopes – and, with a new Isotope Production System in Unit 6, will ensure Canadian technology continues to be instrumental in the fight against cancer worldwide.”
Unit 6 was the first reactor renewed under Bruce Power’s Major Component Replacement Project, returning to service in 2023. In addition to delivering clean, reliable power to Ontario, it will now produce Lutetium-177, a targeted therapy used around the world in the treatment of prostate cancer and other diseases.
“This is an exciting time for Bruce Power and for our nuclear industry,” said Eric Chassard, President and Chief Executive Officer, Bruce Power. “I would like to thank Minister Hodgson for visiting the site today to get a first-hand look at all of the work we’re doing to operate and refurbish our units to be able to supply clean, reliable energy for Ontario and an abundance of cancer-fighting medical isotopes used around the world.”
Part of the funding for the new IPS is being provided through Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada’s Strategic Innovation Fund. The investment also supports the Saugeen Ojibway Nation (SON) in expanding its partnership with Bruce Power through the initiative Gamzook’aamin aakozwin — meaning “we are teaming up to fight the sickness.”
“This project will benefit people at home and abroad,” said Darlene Johnston, Chief, Chippewas of Nawash Unceded First Nation. “It’s about healing, opportunity, and working together to make a difference.”
“We’re thrilled to help bring these crucial isotopes to people who need them and to help fight cancer around the world,” added SON Chief Conrad Ritchie. “Our growing partnership with Bruce Power also brings opportunities to our communities right here at home.”
James Scongack, Bruce Power’s Chief Operating Officer and Chair of the Canadian Nuclear Isotopes Council, said the move comes at a critical time.
“Considering the rising global demand for medical isotopes, Canada is building on its current capabilities, innovation and expertise," he added. "Canada is in a strong position to meet further its position as a leader in isotope innovation.”
Ontario’s Minister of Energy and Mines, Stephen Lecce, also emphasized the province’s role in isotope leadership.
“Ontario has an ambitious plan to double medical isotope production by 2030, driven in part by the expansion at Unit 6, enabling 24/7 production of cancer-fighting isotopes for Canadians and the world,” Lecce continued.
The IPS system, developed by Isogen, uses Bruce Power’s Candu technology to safely produce Lutetium-177.
John D’Angelo, President of Isogen, said the expansion ensures a steady supply for global healthcare needs.
“This innovative technology has been a game-changer in providing the world health-care community and patients with a steady supply of the isotopes they use every day and will help meet the growing need," he stated.