Saskatchewan is set to establish the first facility in Western Canada dedicated to safety, licensing, and testing of small modular nuclear reactors, commonly known as SMRs. Presently, Canada generates 15% of its electricity from nuclear power, but none of it originates from Western Canada. The upcoming center will be situated adjacent 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 detailed by SaskPower, the Crown corporation overseeing the exploration of nuclear power’s future in the province.
Jeremy Harrison, the minister overseeing SaskPower, expressed that the testing facility will help position Saskatchewan as a nucleus for “nuclear excellence” and bolster a local “nuclear workforce and supply chain.” Harrison emphasized the significance of nuclear power in the province’s energy security strategy. He also commended the collaboration from other provinces, such as Ontario and New Brunswick, in the advancement of SMRs, stating that he views it as a project that unifies the nation.
Arthur Situm, who serves as the Canada Research Chair specializing in SMR safety and is also an assistant professor at the University of Regina, explained that the test loops will be non-nuclear tools designed to replicate real reactor conditions. This setup will enable researchers to study various factors, including the chemistry of reactor components. The introduction of these test loops will facilitate the offering of new training and research programs in nuclear engineering, thermal hydraulics, chemistry, and safety at post-secondary institutions within the province, according to SaskPower.
Rupen Pandya, president and CEO of SaskPower, highlighted that the training center will play a vital role in attracting and nurturing the talent essential for making nuclear power generation a reality in Saskatchewan. The decision regarding the construction of an SMR in the province is still under consideration by SaskPower. Harrison mentioned that Estevan is the probable location for the potential construction of an SMR if approved. Two prospective sites near Estevan in southeast Saskatchewan have been identified, with a final decision on the exact site expected later this year.
The Crown corporation is investing $4 million in the establishment of the testing center. Additionally, $2 million in funding is being provided by the federal government through Prairies Economic Development Canada, while Innovation Saskatchewan is contributing $1 million, along with an in-kind contribution for the initial three years of the space leased at the research and technology park. SaskPower noted that the Canadian Nuclear Laboratory will also extend in-kind design support for the project.
