Four provinces have outlined their path forward when it comes to the development of small nuclear reactors.
The governments of New Brunswick, Ontario, Saskatchewan, and Alberta have released a strategic plan for small modular reactors.
It identifies five key priority areas for developing and deploying the reactors, also known as SMRs.
- Positioning Canada as an exporter of global SMR technology
- Promoting a strong nuclear regulatory framework
- Securing federal government commitments on financial and policy support for new SMR technologies
- Creating opportunities for participation from Indigenous communities and public engagement
- Working with the federal government and nuclear operators on a robust nuclear waste management plan
SMRs are much smaller than traditional nuclear reactors, which means they are able to supply power to smaller electricity grids and remote off-grid locations — something traditional reactors cannot do.
The provinces say the report highlights how SMRs can provide “safe, reliable and zero-emissions energy” to residents while creating new opportunities to export Canadian knowledge and expertise around the world.
This report builds on a feasibility study that found that SMR development would “support domestic energy needs, curb greenhouse gas emissions, and position Canada as a global leader in clean technologies and the fight against climate change.”
New Brunswick, Ontario and Saskatchewan have been working together to advance SMRs in Canada through an inter-provincial memorandum of understanding signed in December 2019. Alberta joined the MOU in April 2021.
You can view the joint strategic plan by clicking here.
