Canada is planning to construct up to 10 new nuclear reactors within the next 15 years, expand the sale of Canadian-made reactors globally, and double uranium exports, according to Energy Minister Tim Hodgson. Hodgson unveiled a new national strategy for nuclear power, describing it as a blueprint for a “new civilian nuclear renaissance” to enhance the country’s electrical grid capacity by 2050.
During a news conference in Newmarket, Ont., Hodgson emphasized the necessity of nuclear energy for achieving the goal of doubling the grid capacity and transitioning to a low-carbon economy in less than 25 years. He highlighted the crucial role of nuclear energy in providing clean and reliable baseload power essential for Canada’s energy ambitions.
The strategy outlines the initiation of construction on two large-scale reactors by 2035, with plans for five additional reactors to be in progress or under development by 2040. It also aims to have at least one reactor under construction outside Ontario by 2035, along with the deployment of a Canadian-made microreactor to a remote community by the late 2030s.
Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre expressed skepticism about the plan, emphasizing the need for tangible results rather than mere announcements. Currently, Canada operates four nuclear power plants, contributing around 15% of the nation’s electricity. A proposed small modular reactor at the Darlington nuclear plant in Ontario is expected to be the first of its kind in the G7, potentially producing up to 300 megawatts per unit.
The strategy also focuses on expanding the export of Candu reactors to new markets globally. It aims to penetrate at least four new international markets by 2040 and engage with six to ten new nuclear entrant markets to solidify Canada as a preferred partner.
The document clarifies that Prime Minister Mark Carney was not involved in the development of the strategy due to an ethics screen in place, ensuring transparency and ethical standards. It highlights the strategic importance of reactor exports in establishing long-term partnerships and advancing Canada’s foreign policy objectives.
The strategy underscores the need for Canada to diversify trading relationships and strengthen ties with other nations, positioning Candu reactors as a key instrument in this strategy. It emphasizes the geopolitical significance of nuclear energy exports and their role in fostering enduring relationships with partner countries.
In case international sales of Candu reactors do not materialize as expected, the strategy suggests exploring options for enhancing domestic uranium enrichment to support alternative reactors. Candu reactors stand out for not requiring enriched uranium, aligning with Western allies’ efforts to reduce dependence on key enriched uranium suppliers like Russia.
The strategy also reaffirms the proposal to transfer impact assessments for nuclear projects to the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission from the Impact Assessment Agency of Canada. While this proposal is still under consultation, the government aims to streamline regulatory processes to facilitate the production of affordable and sustainable energy across the country.