Ontario Energy Minister Stephen Lecce was at Bruce Power in Tiverton today for the announcement of an expansion of the nuclear operator’s medical isotope program.
A new hot cell will be constructed to process the cancer-fighting medical isotope lutetium-177 which is used as a targeted therapy, including for prostate cancer and neuroendocrine tumours.
The Ontario government says, “By repatriating medical isotope processing to the province and building provincial capacity to process the isotopes produced at our nuclear stations, Ontario is cementing its position as a leader in this cutting-edge medical field.” Right now, they’re processed in Germany.
The hot cell at Bruce Power will support the initial processing of lutetium-177 that involves removing the aluminum carriers to extract the lutetium, known as ‘decladding.’ Bruce Power has commissioned a second production line in its Unit 7 Isotope Production System, which will double lutetium-177 production capacity on Unit 7.
Bruce Power will partner with Isogen to construct this new hot cell and will also work with the Saugeen Ojibway Nation to build upon the existing Gamzook’aamin aakoziwin isotope partnership.
In addition, Bruce Power will begin the refurbishment of Unit 4 on February 1, 2025, while refurbishment of Unit 3 is already underway.
In total, Ontario is planning to refurbish a total of six Bruce units (Units 3 to 8) by 2033, which will extend their operating lives for at least another 30 years.
Progressive Conservative Member of Provincial Parliament for Huron-Bruce Lisa Thompson says in a statement, “Today’s announcements demonstrate that communities in Bruce, Grey and Huron Counties are proving that rural Ontario has the capacity, the talent and genuine desire to support the development of global-leading, cancer-fighting technologies, in addition to growing the production of clean, affordable energy that will position the province to confidently build for future growth and prosperity.”
Chippewas of Nawash Unceded First Nation Chief Greg Nadjiwon, says in a statement, “We’re proud to be part of this unique partnership that is not only helping to fight cancer on a global scale, but is a step forward in economic participation in meaningful projects in our Territory that will support us in implementing our vision for our communities.”