Saskatchewan is making significant strides in nuclear energy development as Premier Scott Moe unveils plans for two large nuclear reactors in northwest Saskatchewan. The first reactor is slated for operation by 2042, with the second following in 2050. Moe emphasized the importance of investing in a reliable, affordable, and continuous power source, highlighting nuclear energy as the ideal solution during a news conference at the University of Saskatchewan.
In addition to the large reactors, Saskatchewan is also progressing with its small modular reactor (SMR) initiatives. The province’s initial SMR project is set to be constructed at the Rafferty Dam, west of Estevan, and is anticipated to be operational in the mid-2030s.
Eric Anderson, the executive director of the Saskatchewan Industrial and Mining Suppliers Association, expressed readiness to support the nuclear projects, emphasizing the association’s capacity and capability to contribute to the construction and maintenance of both large and small reactors.
The nuclear plans are expected to benefit Indigenous communities, as the province commits to collaborating with First Nations in reactor construction. Sheldon Wuttunee, the president and CEO of the First Nations Natural Resource Centre of Excellence, highlighted the partnership opportunities and potential generational wealth creation for Indigenous entrepreneurs.
Under the newly announced “Delivering Energy Security Through Nuclear Power” plan, Saskatchewan aims to achieve 2,600 megawatts (MW) of nuclear power generation by 2050. The shift towards nuclear energy is seen as a crucial step in reducing climate change impacts, as nuclear power is considered a clean energy source with minimal CO2 emissions.
The province’s decision to invest in nuclear energy aligns with global trends, following the footsteps of countries like France and the United States. Saskatchewan’s move towards nuclear energy is viewed as a strategic approach, allowing the province to learn from others’ experiences in adopting nuclear power efficiently.
In parallel to the nuclear projects, Bell Canada and the province are collaborating on the construction of a substantial 300-megawatt artificial intelligence data centre near Regina. The project, with plans for expansion to 1.2 gigawatts and a significant investment, underlines the growing energy needs of the province’s industrial sector.
Despite the ambitious nuclear and data centre projects, concerns have been raised regarding their financial implications and environmental impacts. With the province planning to maintain coal-fired power plants until 2050, there are apprehensions about the overall cost and timing of the new energy initiatives.
SaskPower’s ongoing debt obligations and potential water usage challenges for nuclear cooling processes have also been highlighted as areas of concern. The province is expected to evaluate suitable locations for the nuclear reactors, ensuring meaningful engagement with local communities and Indigenous groups throughout the decision-making process.