Switzerland-based ABB has secured a multi-year contract with Canada’s Bruce Power to supply advanced excitation technology, aimed at extending the life, reliability, and efficiency of the eight units at the Bruce Nuclear Generating Station in Ontario. Financial details have not been disclosed. 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.
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. 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.
This project aligns with Bruce Power’s Major Component Replacement Project, which includes refurbishing units 3-8 by 2033. A refurbished unit 6 returned to service in 2023, ahead of schedule and budget, while outages for units 3&4 remain on track.
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. Zurich-based ABB was established in 1988 through the merger of ASEA of Sweden and BBC of Switzerland. The company has over 140 years of history and around 110,000 employees worldwide.
“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,” said James Scongack, Bruce Power’s Chief Operating Officer and Executive Vice-President. “This contract supports good jobs, the economy, and Canada’s energy independence.”
Danilo Moresco, Head of Power Reliability at ABB’s Energy Industries Division noted: “The continued global demand for secure, low-carbon electricity means that the modernization 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.”
