Canada is considering the construction of up to 10 new nuclear reactors within the next 15 years, along with expanding the sale of Canadian-made reactors globally and doubling uranium exports, according to Energy Minister Tim Hodgson. The government aims to achieve a “new civilian nuclear renaissance” to increase the country’s electrical grid capacity twofold by 2050.
Hodgson emphasized the necessity of nuclear energy for Canada to reach its goal of doubling the grid capacity and establishing a low-carbon economy in a short timeframe. He highlighted the importance of nuclear energy in providing clean and reliable baseload power essential for the country’s energy security.
The national strategy unveiled by Hodgson outlines plans to commence construction of two large-scale reactors by 2035, with five more in the planning or development phase by 2040. Additionally, at least one reactor is slated for construction outside Ontario by 2035, and a Canadian-made microreactor is set to be finalized and deployed to a remote community by the late 2030s.
Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre expressed skepticism about the plan, emphasizing the need for tangible results rather than promises. Currently, Canada operates four nuclear power plants, contributing about 15% of the nation’s electricity. The proposed facility at the Darlington plant in Ontario aims to introduce the first small modular reactor in the G7, capable of generating up to 300 megawatts per unit.
The partnership between Ottawa and Alberta includes collaboration on developing a nuclear power plant strategy. According to officials from Natural Resources Canada, the construction of the reactors outlined in the strategy could exceed $100 billion in costs, with potential funding sources including the Canadian Infrastructure Bank and the Canada Growth Fund.
The strategy also focuses on expanding the sale of Candu reactors to new export markets to enhance Canada’s position as a reliable uranium partner and utilize nuclear energy for geopolitical influence. The document clarifies that Prime Minister Mark Carney was not involved in developing the strategy due to ethical considerations related to his past investments in the sector.
The government aims to establish durable partnerships through reactor exports, creating long-term geopolitical and commercial relationships to advance Canada’s foreign policy interests. If international sales of Candu reactors fall short, the strategy suggests exploring increased domestic uranium enrichment to support other reactors. The government is considering transferring impact assessments for nuclear projects to the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission, a proposal that is currently under consultation.
In summary, the national strategy for nuclear power in Canada aims to significantly expand the country’s nuclear energy capacity, enhance export opportunities, and strengthen Canada’s position as a key player in the global nuclear energy market.