By CHAT News Today

Working with Ontario, Saskatchewan, New Brunswick

Alberta to explore small-scale nuclear tech

Aug 7, 2020 | 10:03 AM

EDMONTON – Alberta will work with three other provinces to look at emerging, small-scale nuclear technology that potentially could lower emissions and help diversify the energy sector.

Premier Jason Kenney says Alberta will enter into a memorandum of understanding with Ontario, Saskatchewan and New Brunswick to support the development of versatile and scalable small modular reactors (SMRs).

According to the province, SMRs are smaller than traditional nuclear reactors and scalable to suit local needs, with lower upfront capital costs and enhanced safety features. This new and versatile technology could supply non-emitting, low-cost energy for on-grid and off-grid communities in Alberta, including remote and rural areas of the province, as well as industries with a significant need for steam, such as Alberta’s oil sands.

“Our government is exploring all opportunities that could help diversify our economy and create jobs for Albertans,” says Jason Kenney in a release. “We are building on our track record of responsible and innovative energy production by exploring the potential for small modular reactors, which have the potential to generate reliable and affordable energy, while also strengthening our traditional resource sectors and reducing emissions. We are excited to collaborate with our provincial partners to stay ahead of the game in the development of this promising technology.”

John Gorman, president & CEO of the Canadian Nuclear Association, says this is a crucial step in Canada’s energy transition.

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“SMRs produce the density of electricity and heat needed to maximize the potential of all other energy sources,” he says. “Canada is fortunate to have one of the world’s largest clean electricity grids (82%per cent carbon-free), one of the world’s largest reserves of oil and natural gas, plus a growing array of biofuel, solar, wind and hydrogen energy. When we get these resources working together, no one can match Canada’s ability to produce clean, abundant, affordable energy.”

Quick facts

SMRs are nuclear reactors that are smaller and more flexible than conventional nuclear reactors. SMRs would be small enough to be built in a factory and shipped by truck, rail or ship.

A typical SMR would generate between two and 300 megawatts of electricity, which could provide power for a village or small city. In comparison, a conventional nuclear reactor can generate 600 to 1,000 megawatts, which can provide power for a large city.

SMRs could operate independently or be linked to multiple units, depending on the required amount of power.

In November 2018, the federal government released the Canadian Small Modular Reactor Roadmap that outlines recommendations for collaboration among federal, provincial and territorial governments, Indigenous communities and other stakeholders to support SMR development in Canada.

In February 2020, the federal government announced plans for a fall 2020 launch of Canada’s SMR Action Plan, which will outline progress and ongoing efforts across Canada.

In December 2019, New Brunswick, Ontario and Saskatchewan signed a memorandum of understanding to work together to support the development and deployment of SMRs.

Canada is the second-largest uranium producer in the world, with about 15 per cent of total world production.

The Athabasca Basin, which straddles the northern Alberta-Saskatchewan border, contains some of the greatest uranium resources in the world.