The Point Lepreau Nuclear Generating Station has returned to operation after being out of service for eight months, according to NB Power.
In the spring, the station underwent planned maintenance. NB Power said it was upgrading equipment and ensuring the ongoing reliability and safety of the station’s operations.
“During start-up protocol, following work completion, a critical issue was identified with the main generator which is located on the non-nuclear side of the station – an area that was not worked on during the outage,” the utility said in a release. “This issue needed to be addressed before returning the station online.”
Repairs were made to six stator bars located within the main generator – which is the stationary part that converts the rotating magnetic field into electric current.
“This process was very complex and required careful disassembly, reassembly, and extensive testing to meet the strict safety and operational standards,” the release explained.
Lori Clark, NB Power’s president and CEO, said the return of PLNGS highlights the incredible dedication of the team and their commitment to serving customers.
“I am proud of the professionalism and expertise our team has shown in overcoming this challenge. This underscores our pride and commitment to delivering sustainable, safe, and reliable energy to New Brunswickers.”
The station coming online as the winter months and colder temperatures pick up will help meet the province’s energy needs during what the utility considers a peak season.
It is estimated to have cost $900,000 for each day that Point Lepreau is offline. NB Power did not say how much taking the generating station offline would cost in its most recent release, but said it “is actively exploring options to mitigate costs for customers, including potential recovery through corporate insurance policies.”
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