NB Power has announced that the Point Lepreau Nuclear Generating Station (PLNGS) was safely taken offline on September 11, 2026. The temporary shutdown is necessary to perform maintenance on a small instrumentation line located inside the reactor building.

Why the Station is Offline

According to NB Power’s official announcement, the specific location of the instrumentation line cannot be safely accessed while the reactor is in operation. As a result, the station had to be powered down to allow crews to complete the necessary repairs. Officials have stressed that there is absolutely no risk to the public, employees, or the environment during this process.

Impact on Power Supply

Saint John residents and businesses do not need to worry about immediate power disruptions. NB Power is actively coordinating across its broader generation fleet to ensure that reliable electricity service continues to be delivered to all customers while Point Lepreau is offline.

Next Steps and Timeline

Currently, specialized teams are conducting detailed assessments and making preparations to progress the repair work. A definitive timeline for when the station will be back online has not yet been determined, but crews are working diligently to resolve the issue.

About Point Lepreau

Operating since 1983, the Point Lepreau Nuclear Generating Station is a cornerstone of New Brunswick’s energy grid. With a net capacity of 660 megawatts, it provides safe, reliable, and clean electricity, supplying approximately one-third of the province’s power in 2025.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there any danger to the public or the environment?

No. NB Power has confirmed that the shutdown was conducted safely and there is no risk to the public, employees, or the environment.

Will this cause power outages in Saint John?

NB Power is coordinating with its other generation facilities to maintain a steady and reliable electricity supply, so customers should not experience service interruptions due to this maintenance.

When will the station be operational again?

Specialized teams are currently assessing the situation to determine a timeline for the repairs. Updates will be provided as the work progresses.