The governments of Canada and Saskatchewan have announced a significant joint investment to establish and expand nuclear research capabilities within the province. The funding, revealed on January 19, 2026, marks a strategic step towards exploring nuclear power, specifically small modular reactors (SMRs), as a potential component of Saskatchewan's future energy mix.
Building a Foundation for Nuclear Expertise
The investment is designed to build foundational knowledge and research capacity within Saskatchewan. This includes funding for academic research, workforce training initiatives, and technical studies to assess the feasibility and requirements for deploying nuclear technology. The move is seen as critical for a province with major energy needs and a commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
SaskPower President & CEO, Rupen Pandya, emphasized the long-term nature of the initiative during the announcement. He stated that this research phase is essential for making informed, responsible decisions about whether to proceed with nuclear power generation in the future. The investment will allow the province to develop the necessary regulatory understanding, safety protocols, and skilled workforce.
The Path Towards Small Modular Reactors
A primary focus of the research will be on small modular reactor (SMR) technology. SMRs are advanced nuclear reactors that are smaller in size and output than traditional nuclear plants. Proponents argue they could provide reliable, zero-emission baseload power, which is particularly valuable for supporting intermittent renewable sources like wind and solar.
This provincial research push aligns with a broader national SMR action plan, which Saskatchewan has joined alongside Ontario, New Brunswick, and Alberta. The collaborative effort aims to develop and deploy SMR technology across Canada for various applications, including electricity generation and industrial processes.
Implications for Saskatchewan's Economy and Energy Future
The investment is expected to have multi-faceted impacts on Saskatchewan. In the immediate term, it will create research positions and opportunities in the academic and scientific sectors. In the long term, if SMR deployment moves forward, it could lead to new high-tech industries, construction jobs, and a transformed energy sector.
This initiative represents a pivotal moment for Saskatchewan's energy policy. While the province remains a powerhouse in traditional oil and gas, and is expanding its wind and solar capacity, nuclear research introduces a new, potentially transformative option for clean, reliable power. The findings from this publicly funded research will ultimately guide whether Saskatchewan takes the next step towards becoming a nuclear energy province.
The announcement underscores a significant shift, positioning nuclear technology as a serious contender in planning for Saskatchewan's sustainable economic and energy future.
