A group of First Nations in Ontario is preparing to take ownership of a new nuclear reactor after forming a commercial alliance with the federal and provincial governments.
Ottawa and Ontario are offering loan guarantees worth $700 million to the seven Williams Treaties First Nations located east of Toronto. This investment will convert into equity for one of the four small modular reactors being constructed at the Darlington New Nuclear Project in Bowmanville, Ont., by Ontario Power Generation.
Energy and Mines Minister Stephen Lecce mentioned that this marks the first equity partnership involving First Nations in a nuclear reactor across Canada.
He noted that this investment will provide a minority stake for the First Nations in the facility and contribute to economic reconciliation.
The Williams Treaties First Nations include Indigenous communities near Lake Ontario and Lake Simcoe: Alderville First Nation, Curve Lake First Nation, Hiawatha First Nation, Scugog Island First Nation, Chippewas of Beausoleil First Nation, Chippewas of Georgina Island First Nation, and Chippewas of Rama First Nation.
An official announcement is expected on Tuesday morning.
The Chiefs from the Williams Treaties First Nations are calling this agreement a “historic step forward.”
“Through this investment, we are not only creating opportunities for our own communities – we are helping advance a project that will play an important role in meeting Ontario and Canada’s growing energy needs,” The chiefs said in a statement.
“This investment demonstrates what is possible when First Nations are able to participate meaningfully in projects taking place within their territories, not only as rights holders but as investors, partners, and participants in the long-term success of the project.”
Construction is underway for the first of four small modular reactors at the Darlington power plant.
“After breaking ground on the first SMR in the G7, our government is taking another historic step by bringing First Nations in as full partners in this once-in-a-generation project,” Lecce stated.
The total cost for all four small modular reactors is projected at $21 billion. The initial reactor is anticipated to be finished by 2030.
Once operational, these small modular reactors will generate 1,200 megawatts of power-enough to supply electricity to 1.2 million homes.
This report by was first June 22, 2026.
Liam Casey,
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