Small Modular Reactors Study Released and MOU Expanded

Source: Connie Vitello · ENVIRONMENTAL JOURNAL · | May 12, 2021

Source: Environmental Journal

The premiers of New Brunswick, Ontario, Saskatchewan, and Alberta joined virtually recently to release a study by provincial power utilities to formally welcome Alberta as a signatory to the small modular reactor (SMR) memorandum of understanding previously signed by New Brunswick, Ontario, and Saskatchewan.

With the addition of Alberta to the memorandum, all provinces involved have agreed to collaborate on the advancement of SMRs as a clean energy option to address climate change and regional energy demands, while supporting economic growth and innovation.

The SMR Feasibility Study, formally requested as part of the memorandum of understanding signed in December 2019, concludes that the development of SMRs would support domestic energy needs, curb greenhouse gas emissions, and position Canada as a global leader in this emerging technology.

SMRs are nuclear reactors that produce 300 megawatts (MW) of electricity or less. They can support large established grids, small grids, remote off-grid communities, and resource projects.

The study, conducted by NB Power, Ontario Power Generation, Bruce Power and SaskPower, identifies three streams of SMR project proposals for consideration by the three governments.

Stream 1 proposes a first grid-scale SMR project of about 300 MW constructed at the Darlington nuclear site in Ontario by 2028. Subsequent units in Saskatchewan would follow, with the first SMR projected to be in service in 2032.

“This study confirms the feasibility of small modular reactors in Canada and outlines a path forward to deploy this new clean, safe, reliable and competitively priced power. This new technology will help attract investment, create high-skilled jobs and contribute to our growing economy,” said Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe.