Reliable

Nuclear energy is reliable

Unlike most other forms of electricity generation, nuclear power plants are designed to operate continuously. In 2008, several of Canada's nuclear generating units operated for more than 90 per cent of available hours.

Nuclear stations are the workhorses of the electricity system. Because they work day and night, week in and week out, they allow the use of other forms of generation that operate more intermittently – newer forms of generation such as wind and solar that depend on the wind blowing and the sun shining; and more established forms such as hydro and natural gas stations that tend to run during periods of high demand.

Ontario Power Generation’s Darlington nuclear generating station achieved a unit capability factor of 94.5% in 2008.

Reliable nuclear energy supports the use of emerging technologies

Nuclear power stations also make possible new technologies such as plug-in electric vehicles. New electric vehicles are being designed to charge up at night from clean and less expensive nuclear and hydro power. Electric vehicles need nuclear power if they are to deliver on their promises of cleaner transportation and low fuel costs.