Saskatchewan is set to establish the first center in Western Canada dedicated to safety, licensing, and testing for small modular nuclear reactors, commonly known as SMRs. Currently, nuclear energy accounts for 15% of Canada’s power generation, but none of it originates from Western Canada. The new facility, situated next to the University of Regina at the Innovation Saskatchewan research and technology park, will host two small modular reactor test loops that simulate reactor components, as confirmed by SaskPower, the entity tasked with exploring nuclear power’s future in the province.
Jeremy Harrison, the official overseeing SaskPower, mentioned that the testing center will position Saskatchewan as a nucleus for nuclear expertise, bolstering local nuclear workforce and supply chain. Harrison emphasized the significance of nuclear power in the province’s energy security strategy and commended the collaboration with other provinces like Ontario and New Brunswick on SMR development, considering it a unifying national endeavor.
Arthur Situm, the Canada Research Chair focusing on SMR safety and a University of Regina assistant professor, elaborated that the non-nuclear test loops will replicate actual reactor conditions, enabling researchers to study various aspects, 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 Saskatchewan, according to SaskPower.
Rupen Pandya, SaskPower’s president and CEO, expressed confidence that the training center will attract and nurture the necessary talent to realize nuclear power generation in Saskatchewan. The final decision on constructing an SMR in the province is pending, with Estevan identified as the probable location. Two potential sites near Estevan have been earmarked, and a final decision on the site selection is anticipated within the year.
SaskPower is deliberating on building an SMR, with a decision expected by the end of 2029, construction slated to commence in 2031, and completion projected for 2034. The Crown corporation is contributing $4 million towards the establishment of 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 in-kind contributions for the initial three years of the leased space at the research and technology park. The Canadian Nuclear Laboratory will also provide in-kind design support, as confirmed by SaskPower.