Saskatchewan is set to establish the inaugural center in Western Canada dedicated to safety, licensing, and testing for small modular nuclear reactors, commonly known as SMRs. Presently, nuclear energy accounts for 15% of Canada’s power generation, with no production in Western Canada. The upcoming facility will be positioned next to the University of Regina within Innovation Saskatchewan’s research and technology park. It will accommodate two small modular reactor “test loops,” which replicate a portion of a reactor, as outlined by SaskPower, the entity tasked with exploring the future of nuclear power in the region.
Jeremy Harrison, the minister overseeing SaskPower, expressed that the testing center will help position Saskatchewan as a focal point for “nuclear excellence” and bolster the local “nuclear workforce and supply chain.” Harrison emphasized the importance of nuclear power in the province’s energy security strategy. He also commended the collaboration from provinces like Ontario and New Brunswick in the advancement of SMRs, viewing it as a project that unites the nation.
Arthur Situm, the Canada Research Chair specializing in SMR safety and a professor at the University of Regina, shared insights on the non-nuclear test loops designed to replicate real reactor conditions. Situm highlighted the significance of maximizing the efficiency and longevity of reactor investments to ensure optimal performance.
The introduction of the test loops is expected to facilitate the launch of new training and research programs in nuclear engineering, thermal hydraulics, chemistry, and safety at post-secondary institutions in the province, according to SaskPower. Rupen Pandya, president and CEO of SaskPower, expressed confidence that the training center will play a pivotal role in nurturing the talent necessary for the realization of nuclear power generation in Saskatchewan.
SaskPower is currently evaluating the potential construction of an SMR in the province, with Estevan earmarked as the probable location if the project materializes. The decision on the final site is slated for later this year, with a definitive resolution on building an SMR expected by the end of 2029, followed by construction commencing in 2031 and completion by 2034.
To establish the testing center, SaskPower is contributing $4 million, supplemented by an additional $2 million from the federal government through Prairies Economic Development Canada, and a $1 million contribution from Innovation Saskatchewan, along with in-kind support for the initial three years of space leased at the research and technology park. SaskPower also mentioned that the Canadian Nuclear Laboratory will provide in-kind design assistance.