Bruce Power and a subsidiary of BWX Technologies, Inc. (BWXT) have entered into a development agreement to leverage the capability and innovation of those organizations to supply medical isotopes used to treat cancer.
The development agreement will focus on identifying market opportunities for isotopes and how Bruce Power can provide irradiation services to BWXT to meet these needs. Advancements in radionuclide therapies means there will be an increasing demand for a supply source to meet the growing need.
“Ontario’s nuclear fleet plays a critical role in supplying isotopes globally, and, by leveraging our experience, nuclear assets and innovative technologies, we believe there is more we can do to ensure Canada remains one of the world’s key suppliers,” said Mike Rencheck, Bruce Power’s President and CEO. “This agreement will make use of the expertise within both of our organizations to respond to a rapidly changing global demand for medical isotopes by developing a flexible and new irradiation capability at Bruce Power.”
Ontario’s nuclear fleet, between Bruce Power and Ontario Power Generation’s (OPG) Pickering and Darlington facilities, provide 60 per cent of the province’s electricity while continuing to be a low-cost and reliable power source. This fleet also produces isotopes globally to keep hospitals clean and safe, to fight the Zika Virus, treat brain tumours and assist the fight against cancer.
“The industry stands united to continue playing this critical role by expanding opportunities to meet this global need,” said John MacQuarrie, President, BWXT Canada Ltd. “We are excited to be working with Bruce Power to advance new solutions that will improve the health care and lives of Canadians, and people around the world.”
Bruce Power and BWXT are also part of the recently established Canadian Nuclear Isotope Council, which will ensure Canada remains a world leader in the production of life-saving isotopes by raising awareness and supporting long-term policies at the domestic and international levels. Over 30 organizations from Canada and around the world have joined the council, which will work to maintain Canada’s leadership position on the global isotope stage. Learn more at www.canadianisotopes.ca.
About Bruce Power
Formed in 2001, Bruce Power is an electricity company based in Bruce County, Ontario. We are powered by our people. Our 4,200 employees are the foundation of our accomplishments and are proud of the role they play in safely delivering clean, reliable, low-cost nuclear power to families and businesses across the province. Bruce Power has worked hard to build strong roots in Ontario and is committed to protecting the environment and supporting the communities in which we live. Learn more at www.brucepower.com and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram and YouTube.
For more information, contact:
John Peevers – Bruce Power Communications and Media Relations – john.peevers@brucepower.com – 519-361-6161