The Point Lepreau Nuclear Generating Station in this undated file photo. (Mike Cameron / CTV Atlantic)

NB Power took the Point Lepreau Nuclear Generating Station off the grid on September 11. This shutdown comes just three days after crews reconnected the facility following previous repairs.

According to a report from CTV News Atlantic, the latest outage allows workers to repair a small instrumentation line inside the reactor building.

“The location of the line cannot be accessed safely while the station is operating and must be taken offline to complete the repair,” a news release from NB Power reads. “Specialized teams are currently carrying out detailed assessments as well as preparations to progress this work and determine a timeline for repairs.”

The utility also confirmed there is no risk to the public, employees, or the environment.

A Year of Interruptions

As a resident of New Brunswick, you rely on Point Lepreau for roughly one third of your electricity. However, the station has remained offline for a significant portion of 2026.

NB Power conducted a four month planned maintenance outage from April to August. During that time, crews completed more than 20,000 tasks. The station returned to power on August 19 but went dark again on August 31 to repair a gasket in the turbine system. It reconnected on September 8 before this latest shutdown.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did Point Lepreau go offline on September 11?

NB Power took the station offline to repair a small instrumentation line inside the reactor building.

Is there any danger to the public?

No. NB Power confirmed there is no risk to the public, employees, or the environment.

How much power does Point Lepreau provide to New Brunswick?

The station supplies approximately one third of the electricity for the province.

When will the station come back online?

NB Power has not yet determined a timeline for the repairs. Specialized teams are currently assessing the situation.