NB Power is gearing up for a massive operational undertaking just outside of Saint John. Starting Friday, April 10, the Point Lepreau Nuclear Generating Station (PLNGS) will enter a planned maintenance outage. This proactive shutdown is part of the utility’s ongoing commitment to ensuring the facility continues to operate safely, reliably, and efficiently for all New Brunswickers.

Scope of the 2026 Maintenance Outage

Planned outages are a critical component of running a nuclear facility, allowing crews to inspect and service equipment that is impossible to access while the reactor is online. According to the official NB Power press release, this year’s outage is expected to last 119 days and will encompass more than 20,000 individual tasks.

The extensive workload requires a highly coordinated effort between regular plant staff and specialized contractors. This influx of skilled workers is expected to provide a significant boost to the local Saint John and surrounding area economy. The comprehensive scope of work includes:

• Detailed structural and mechanical inspections
• Extensive pump and motor maintenance
• Rigorous electrical system testing
• Advancing preliminary work for potential future isotope production at the station

Investing in New Brunswick’s Energy Future

Operating since 1983, the Point Lepreau Nuclear Generating Station remains a cornerstone of New Brunswick’s energy mix. The facility not only provides a steady baseline of clean electricity but also supports hundreds of local jobs and suppliers.

“This outage represents a significant investment in the future of Point Lepreau,” stated Steve Bagshaw, Chief Nuclear Officer and Site Vice President. “Completing this important work today helps strengthen performance, sustain reliability and manage costs over time. It’s about delivering safe, clean, reliable energy that supports long term affordability for our customers.”

What This Means for Customers

Residents and businesses in Saint John and across the province do not need to worry about keeping the lights on during this 119-day period. NB Power has confirmed that they will continue to serve customers seamlessly by utilizing a diverse mix of other generation resources across the province while Point Lepreau is offline.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will my power be interrupted during the Point Lepreau outage?

No. NB Power will use a diverse mix of other generation resources across the province to ensure a continuous and reliable supply of electricity to all customers during the 119-day maintenance period.

How long will the maintenance outage last?

The planned maintenance outage is scheduled to last for 119 days, beginning on Friday, April 10, 2026.

Why is this maintenance necessary?

Planned outages allow workers to safely access, inspect, and service critical equipment that cannot be reached while the nuclear station is actively generating power. This ensures the plant continues to meet rigorous safety standards and operates efficiently.

How does this impact the local economy?

The outage requires specialized contractors and highly skilled teams to complete over 20,000 tasks. The majority of station expenditures go to employees, contractors, and suppliers who live and operate in New Brunswick, providing a substantial economic boost to the region.