Point Lepreau Nuclear Generating Station Back Online After Extensive Maintenance

The Point Lepreau Nuclear Generating Station (PLNGS) has successfully returned to operation on December 14, 2025, following the completion of its scheduled maintenance outage. This critical return ensures a stable and reliable power supply for New Brunswickers, especially as the province heads into the high-demand winter season.

Key Maintenance Highlights and Challenges

The planned outage at PLNGS involved a comprehensive series of tasks aimed at enhancing the station’s reliability, ensuring long-term performance, and upholding the highest standards of nuclear safety. Over 23,000 tasks were completed by the dedicated team, including the replacement of various components such as motors, valves, and pumps, alongside significant upgrades to electrical systems and thorough testing and inspections.

The most intricate part of this year’s maintenance was the generator rewind, which required replacing the stator windings within the main generator on the conventional side of the station.

During the process, an unexpected challenge arose during an early synchronization to the electrical grid, involving a turbine bearing. This issue led to a two-week postponement of PLNGS’s return to service. However, the bearing was successfully replaced, and the station resumed operations after extensive verification and testing, adhering to strict station procedures.

Commitment to Reliable Power

Lori Clark, President and CEO of NB Power, commended the workforce for their professionalism and expertise throughout the outage. “Bringing PLNGS safely back online demonstrates our team’s strong dedication to serving New Brunswickers,” said Clark. “A well-maintained plant operates more efficiently, extends the life of major equipment, and continues to deliver cost effective, clean, reliable power for our customers for years to come.”

Planned outages are a standard and essential part of the maintenance strategy for all NB Power generation facilities, providing crucial opportunities to service equipment inaccessible during online operation. The costs associated with this outage will be transparently reported in NB Power’s annual financial statements.

For more details on this development, you can visit the official NB Power news release.

Frequently Asked Questions

When did the Point Lepreau Nuclear Generating Station return to operation?

The Point Lepreau Nuclear Generating Station returned to operation on December 14, 2025.

What was the primary reason for the outage?

The outage was a planned maintenance activity designed to enhance reliability, ensure long-term performance, and maintain nuclear safety standards.

What was the most complex task completed during the maintenance?

The most complex work component was the generator rewind, which involved replacing the stator windings inside the main generator.

Was there any delay in the station’s return to service?

Yes, the station’s return was postponed by two weeks due to a challenge related to a turbine bearing during an early synchronization to the electrical grid.

How does the return of PLNGS impact New Brunswick’s energy supply?

The return of PLNGS strengthens the province’s energy system, ensuring dependable power for New Brunswickers throughout the high-demand winter season.