SaskPower Embarks on Comprehensive Nuclear Energy Strategy
In a significant development for Saskatchewan's energy future, SaskPower has announced the commencement of a formal evaluation process for large nuclear reactor technology. This strategic move represents a parallel initiative alongside the Crown corporation's ongoing small modular reactor (SMR) project near Estevan, marking a dual-track approach to nuclear energy development in the province.
Parallel Pathways for Nuclear Development
The Crown corporation revealed this week that the evaluation of large nuclear reactor technology "will take place in parallel" with the Estevan SMR project, which is currently in its planning stages. This simultaneous approach underscores Saskatchewan's commitment to exploring multiple nuclear energy pathways to secure long-term energy stability and economic growth.
Rupen Pandya, SaskPower's President and CEO, emphasized the forward-thinking nature of this initiative during Wednesday's announcement. "Potentially bringing a large reactor online will take at least 15 to 20 years, which is why we need to start this process now," Pandya stated, highlighting the long-term planning horizon required for such ambitious energy infrastructure projects.
Minister Harrison's Vision for Energy Security
Jeremy Harrison, Minister Responsible for SaskPower, articulated a compelling vision for Saskatchewan's energy future in a prepared statement delivered in Saskatoon. "Our energy security strategy sets out a pathway to nuclear power generation from both SMRs and large nuclear reactors, using Saskatchewan uranium," Harrison declared.
The minister further elaborated on the transformative potential of nuclear energy for the province. "Together with expanded intertie capacity—referring to high-voltage lines that link electrical grids—nuclear power will make Saskatchewan an export powerhouse and safeguard Saskatchewan's energy security far into the future."
Timelines and Project Milestones
SaskPower has established clear timelines for its nuclear initiatives. The SMR project near Estevan is expected to break ground in 2029, with operational status projected for 2034. The province noted that "significant additional regulatory work, settling on a location and engagement are all needed before construction begins." A specific site near Estevan—which will host the province's first SMR—is anticipated to be identified sometime this year.
For context on energy output, the first SMR is projected to produce 315 megawatts, while the existing coal-burning Boundary Dam Power Station currently generates 531 megawatts, illustrating the scale of nuclear energy's potential contribution to Saskatchewan's power grid.
Research and Development Infrastructure
Earlier this month, federal and provincial governments announced nearly $7 million in combined funding to support nuclear technology research in Saskatchewan. This investment will establish the Small Modular Reactor Safety, Licensing, and Testing Centre (SMR-SLT Centre) at the Innovation Saskatchewan Research and Technology Park facilities on the University of Regina campus.
Once completed, this nuclear centre will be the first of its kind in Western Canada. Researchers at the facility will focus on designing, developing, and licensing SMR technology while simultaneously training workers in a controlled environment. At the University of Regina announcement, Minister Harrison emphasized that the new centre will lay the groundwork for nuclear energy opportunities and help Saskatchewan achieve its goal of net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.
This comprehensive approach to nuclear energy evaluation and development positions Saskatchewan at the forefront of Canada's clean energy transition, leveraging both established large reactor technology and innovative small modular reactors to create a diversified, secure, and export-oriented energy future.
