A new deal has been reached to explore nuclear power generation in Alberta and Saskatchewan. (Photo: Pattison Media)

By David Opinko

Alberta and Saskatchewan agree to develop nuclear power

May 2, 2024 | 9:53 AM

Nuclear power generation could become a possibility in two western Canadian provinces.

The governments of Alberta and Saskatchewan have signed a memorandum of understanding to advance its development.

Alberta’s Minister of Affordability and Utilities Nathan Neudorf says this work will go a long way in supporting both provinces’ need for affordable and sustainable electricity grids by 2050.

“Alberta is proud to partner with Saskatchewan on further exploring how we can ensure our power grids are affordable, reliable, and sustainable,” Neudorf said.

“Our provinces are leading the world in responsible energy development, and we look forward to learning from Saskatchewan’s experience with nuclear generation.”

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The MOU will support collaboration and information sharing on key areas such as nuclear supply chains and workforce development, the security of fuel supplies, and the development and regulation of nuclear reactor technologies, including small nuclear reactors.

The provinces will also work to advance industrial decarbonization and enhance grid capabilities.

Saskatchewan’s crown investments corporation minister Dustin Duncan says his province has a long-standing cooperative relationship with Alberta on energy development, and share similar challenges and opportunities related to decarbonization.

“I look forward to continued collaboration with the Government of Alberta on meeting the power needs of our provinces, while growing our economies and introducing new nuclear industries,” Duncan said.

In 2019, the Governments of Saskatchewan, Ontario and New Brunswick signed an MOU to advance small nuclear reactors. Alberta later joined it in 2021.