Saskatchewan is set to establish the first center in Western Canada dedicated to safety, licensing, and testing for small modular nuclear reactors, commonly known as SMRs. Currently, nuclear energy accounts for 15% of Canada’s power generation, with none produced in Western Canada. The new facility will be situated next to the University of Regina at Innovation Saskatchewan’s research and technology park.
The center will feature two small modular reactor “test loops” that replicate a section of a reactor, as explained by SaskPower, the Crown corporation overseeing nuclear power exploration in the province. Jeremy Harrison, the minister overseeing SaskPower, emphasized that the testing center will position Saskatchewan as a hub for nuclear expertise, bolstering the development of a local nuclear workforce and supply chain.
Arthur Situm, the Canada Research Chair in small modular reactor safety and a University of Regina professor, highlighted that the test loops will be non-nuclear devices designed to simulate real reactor conditions. This will enable researchers to study various aspects, including reactor component chemistry.
The introduction of the test loops will pave the way for post-secondary institutions in the province to offer new programs in nuclear engineering, thermal hydraulics, chemistry, and safety. Rupen Pandya, SaskPower’s president and CEO, stressed that the training center will play a vital role in attracting and nurturing the talent necessary for advancing nuclear power generation in Saskatchewan.
SaskPower is currently evaluating the possibility of constructing an SMR in the province. Estevan is earmarked as the probable location for the potential SMR, with two sites in southeast Saskatchewan identified as possible locations. A final decision on the construction site is expected later this year.
The Crown corporation is investing $4 million in setting up the testing center, with an additional $2 million in funding from the federal government through Prairies Economic Development Canada. Innovation Saskatchewan is also contributing $1 million, along with providing leased space at the research and technology park for the initial three years. Additionally, the Canadian Nuclear Laboratory will offer design support as in-kind assistance, according to SaskPower.