SaskPower and Saskatchewan begin research into large-scale nuclear reactors

The Saskatchewan government and SaskPower have formally launched a technology selection process to evaluate large-scale nuclear reactors while continuing work on small modular reactors (SMRs); SaskPower expects its first SMR project near Estevan later this year.

The provincial government announced it is formally initiating a technology selection process to evaluate large-scale nuclear reactors in Saskatchewan while continuing work on small modular reactors (SMRs). Officials say the move is part of a broader energy strategy and that planning for large reactors needs to start now because of long timelines. SaskPower expects its first SMR project to begin near Estevan later this year. The province says any large reactors would use uranium sourced in Saskatchewan. Key details: - The government and SaskPower have begun a formal process to select technologies for large-scale nuclear reactors. - Work on SMRs will continue and SaskPower is working with GE-Hitachi on the SMR project near Estevan. - Minister Jeremy Harrison said site selection for large reactors will be collaborative with SMR site planning. - Officials estimated that from a decision on a large reactor to operation can take about 15 years or longer. - The reactors, if built, are reported as likely to use Saskatchewan-mined uranium. - Past studies and proposals have considered Saskatchewan locations, including a 2007 SaskPower report that cited Lake Diefenbaker as suitable and a 2008 proposal involving Bruce Power and Cameco. Summary: The province says the initiative is intended to support the economy and expand career and export opportunities while ensuring longer-term grid reliability. The government has initiated the technology selection process for large reactors and will continue SMR development, with an SMR project expected later this year near Estevan. Timelines for any large-scale decision are long, and further steps and formal decisions will follow as the selection process proceeds.