Saskatchewan is set to establish the inaugural center in Western Canada dedicated to safety, licensing, and testing for small modular nuclear reactors, commonly referred to as SMRs. At present, nuclear energy accounts for 15% of Canada’s power generation, but none of it originates from Western Canada. The new facility will be situated next to the University of Regina within Innovation Saskatchewan’s research and technology park. It will accommodate two “test loops” for small modular reactors, which replicate a segment of a reactor, as described by SaskPower, the provincial Crown corporation tasked with exploring the future of nuclear energy.
Jeremy Harrison, the minister overseeing SaskPower, emphasized that the testing center will play a crucial role in positioning Saskatchewan as a focal point for “nuclear excellence,” fostering a local “nuclear workforce and supply chain.” Harrison expressed his conviction that nuclear power is a key component of the province’s energy security strategy. He commended the collaboration and dedication of other provinces, such as Ontario and New Brunswick, in advancing SMR development, characterizing the initiative as a unifying national project.
Arthur Situm, the Canada Research Chair specializing in SMR safety and an assistant professor at the University of Regina, specified that the test loops will be non-nuclear apparatuses designed to replicate actual reactor conditions, enabling researchers to analyze various factors including reactor component chemistry. These test loops will facilitate the introduction 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, highlighted that the training center will aid in attracting and nurturing the necessary talent to realize nuclear power generation in Saskatchewan. SaskPower is deliberating on the potential construction of an SMR within the province, with Estevan being earmarked as the probable site. Two locations near the city in southeast Saskatchewan have been identified as potential sites, with a final decision on the location expected this year.
The Crown corporation is investing $4 million towards establishing the testing center, with an additional $2 million from the federal government through Prairies Economic Development Canada, and $1 million from Innovation Saskatchewan, along with an in-kind contribution for the initial three years of the leased space at the research and technology park. SaskPower mentioned that the Canadian Nuclear Laboratory will provide in-kind design support for the project.
