May 15, 2008 - 03:24

By Keith Gilligan

DURHAM -- Although the four 'B' side reactors at the Pickering nuclear station are aging, Ontario Power Generation says the units are operating in a safe and efficient way.

OPG officials made the comments during the second day of relicencing hearings for the facility.

The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission held the hearing at the Ajax Convention Centre on Wednesday, drawing about 200 people.

The operating licence for the 'B' side expires on June 30 and OPG is seeking a five-year renewal.

The 'B' reactors have been operating for about 25 years.

OPG officials said the plant operates safely and efficiently now and will continue to do so over the next five years.

"'B' now performs better than at the beginning of the licence period and will continue to do so," said Pierre Trembly, senior site vice-president.

The first hearing date was on Feb. 20 in Ottawa and was primarily OPG and CNSC staff presenting to the commission members. The second hearing was a chance for those who support the granting of the five-year licence renewal or oppose it.

"A regulator wouldn't permit this station to be built where it is and wouldn't allow this design to be used," said Shawn-Patrick Stensil of Greenpeace.

"Greenpeace asks the CNSC to keep OPG on a shorter leash," he said.

The age of the Pickering station means it's "in the most dangerous state of operation and requires greater oversight," Mr. Stensil said, calling for a two-year-operating licence.

"An aging Pickering station represents a threat to Toronto," he said, adding a two-year licence would allow for "better public scrutiny."

When asked why Greenpeace wanted only a two-year licence renewal, Mr. Stensil said that period had been the norm.

"We don't think a five-year approval (should be allowed) given all the issues around aging," he said.

John-Paul Warren, of Citizens for Renewable Energy, said the group also only supports a two-year licence, pointing to the age of the plant and "component fatigue should raise red flags when considering another lengthy operating licence extension."

CNSC staff support a five-year licence, saying OPG is qualified to operate the plant and has or will continue to protect the environment, ensure the health and safety of employees and the public, and maintain national security.

Commission member Christopher Barnes said he "remained concerned" about information that was still outstanding, pointing to reports that would be complete after a decision needed to be made.

He thought as "much information as possible would be brought to the table. Despite the new information, I remain concerned at the number of reports to be received next month," Mr. Barnes said.

"Are you really doing as much as you can," he said. "You're asking for a licence and asking for our faith the process will continue."

Mr. Tremblay said there was "ongoing dialogue" between OPG and commission staff.

"OPG did submit a quite complete application in September of '07," said Peter Elder, the acting director general, directorate of power reactor regulation.

He said new rules were put in place last year on required documentation.

"That's part of why a lot of work done on safety reports is still being done," Mr. Elder said. "OPG is providing information on refurbishment in a timely manner."

"From a municipal standpoint, the safety of residents is most important," Pickering Regional Councillor Bonnie Littley said.

"We trust OPG's dedication to continue striving for improved training for staff will continue throughout its licencing period," Coun. Littley said.

A decision is expected before June 30.

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