Saint John, NB – In a significant development for the region’s energy and health sectors, NB Power has announced it is exploring the feasibility of harvesting medical radioisotopes at the Point Lepreau Nuclear Generating Station (PLNGS). This initiative could position the Saint John region as a key player in the global supply chain for life-saving medical treatments.

A Dual Purpose: Energy and Health

While Point Lepreau is best known for powering New Brunswick homes, its CANDU 6 reactor design possesses unique capabilities that extend beyond electricity generation. NB Power is currently assessing the economic benefits and technical requirements to produce radioisotopes, which are critical components in modern medicine.

“At NB Power, our priority is using our expertise to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives,” said Lori Clark, President and CEO of NB Power. “The potential production of medical radioisotopes at Point Lepreau represents an opportunity to support cancer diagnosis and treatment around the world.”

Targeting Cancer Treatment

The specific isotopes being considered are vital for diagnostic imaging and the treatment of various conditions, including prostate cancer. If the project proceeds, Point Lepreau would join a select group of Canadian nuclear facilities that lead the world in this specialized industry.

Steve Bagshaw, PLNGS Site Vice President & Chief Nuclear Officer, emphasized the human impact of this potential expansion. “Medical isotopes save lives,” Bagshaw stated. “Pursuing medical isotope harvesting at Point Lepreau to support lifesaving treatments is a significant opportunity for Canadians and for global health care while also offering potential revenue and economic benefits for New Brunswick.”

How It Works

The process involves exposing specific materials to the reactor’s core to create isotopes. According to NB Power, the technology being explored is already successfully used in other Canadian CANDU reactors. The harvested material would be:

• Removed from the reactor during scheduled maintenance outages.
• Packaged safely on-site.
• Shipped to a processing facility for purification and preparation.

NB Power has established a dedicated isotope team to develop a strategic plan and is currently exploring partnerships to fund the necessary infrastructure modifications. Importantly, the utility notes that these activities would be integrated into existing operations without compromising safety or power generation.

For the full announcement, you can read the official release here: NB Power explores feasibility and economic benefits of medical isotope harvesting at PLNGS.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are medical isotopes?
Medical isotopes are radioactive substances used in medicine to diagnose and treat diseases. They are commonly used in imaging scans and to destroy cancer cells.

Will this affect my electricity service?
No. NB Power has stated that any necessary modifications and the installation of infrastructure would be carried out during scheduled maintenance outages, ensuring the station continues to serve New Brunswickers reliably.

Is the process safe?
Yes. The operation will continue to be guided by rigorous nuclear regulations. NB Power asserts that high safety standards will remain in place to protect employees, the public, and the environment.

When will production start?
NB Power is currently in the exploration and feasibility stage. They are developing a strategic plan and discussing commercial agreements, so a specific start date has not yet been announced.