The Nuclear Power Reactor Site Preparation Licence will be valid from 17 August 2012 to 17 August 2022.
JRP chair Alan Graham said this decision is an important milestone in Canada’s nuclear history.
"It has been reached in an open and transparent manner with the input of hundreds of citizens, whose thoughts and arguments inspired and challenged us to make the best possible decision," Graham added.
During a hearing held between 21 March to 8 April 2011, the JRP had received and considered submissions from OPG and 264 intervenors, as well as 14 government departments, including the CNSC.
The panel was satisfied that the licensee meets the requirements of section 24 of the Nuclear Safety and Control Act.
The JRP said it has directed the company to prepare a mid-term report on the conduct of the licensed activities and the implementation status of commitments made during the environmental assessment.
Once OPG submits its application, the next step in the regulatory process will be the CNSC licensing decision phase to construct a nuclear power plant.
