The Point Lepreau Nuclear Generating Station (PLNGS) is officially back online, marking the end of a significant planned maintenance outage. The station returned to operation on August 19, 2026, ensuring continued safe, reliable, and long-term clean electricity generation for the Saint John region and the rest of New Brunswick.

A Massive Maintenance Effort

During the planned outage, NB Power employees and specialized contractors worked tirelessly to complete more than 20,000 individual tasks. This critical downtime allowed crews to safely access and maintain equipment that cannot be serviced while the reactor is running.

Key maintenance activities included:

• Inspection, maintenance, testing, and replacement of critical equipment such as pumps, motors, and electrical systems.
• Replacement of vertical flux detectors.
• Comprehensive steam generator cleaning.
• Generator rotor retaining ring replacement.
• A full reactor building integrity test.

Commitment to Safety and Reliability

Planned outages are a standard and vital part of operating any generating station, especially nuclear facilities where safety and operational requirements are exceptionally rigorous. These maintenance periods are essential for extending the life of the station’s equipment and bolstering future grid reliability.

“Safety and quality are at the heart of how we operate every day, and they guided every decision throughout this outage,” stated Steve Bagshaw, Chief Nuclear Officer and Site Vice President. “This outage included important maintenance and component replacement work that strengthens the Station’s reliability and positions Point Lepreau for continued performance in the years ahead.”

Bagshaw also praised the professionalism and expertise of the staff and contractor partners, noting that their dedication directly contributes to NB Power’s goals of improving reliability, managing costs, and maintaining long-term affordability for customers.

Why Point Lepreau Matters to New Brunswick

Operating since 1983, the Point Lepreau Nuclear Generating Station is a cornerstone of New Brunswick’s energy infrastructure. With a net capacity of 660 megawatts, the facility is a massive driver of the province’s energy security and economy. In fact, in 2025, PLNGS supplied approximately one-third of all the electricity used in the province.

For more details on the maintenance outage and the station’s return to service, you can read the full release on NB Power’s official announcement.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

The station successfully returned to operation on August 19, 2026, following a planned maintenance outage.

What kind of work was completed during the outage?

Crews completed over 20,000 tasks, including the inspection and replacement of pumps, motors, electrical systems, and vertical flux detectors. They also conducted steam generator cleaning, replaced the generator rotor retaining ring, and performed a reactor building integrity test.

How much of New Brunswick’s power comes from Point Lepreau?

The station has a net capacity of 660 megawatts and supplied approximately one-third of the electricity used in New Brunswick in 2025.

Who pays for the costs associated with the planned outage?

The costs associated with the maintenance outage are factored into NB Power’s annual financial statements, which are made publicly available.