Saskatchewan is exploring the possibility of building a small modular nuclear reactor in the western part of the province, with Lloydminster directly named as a potential location.
Premier Scott Moe made the announcement Sept. 17 on the final day of the Lloydminster Heavy Oil Show at the Lloyd Ex.
“We have done a fair amount of work over a decade ago at various sites along the North Saskatchewan River and we are looking at how we are going to be able to move forward with a nuclear site here in the western side of the province to power what is going to be needed in the years ahead,” Moe said.
Saskatchewan is exploring nuclear power to meet growing energy demands.
Federal policy shifts could support development
Moe pointed to what he described as encouraging signals from the federal government that could support major energy and infrastructure projects.
He highlighted federal tax incentives, streamlined one-year project approvals, and repealing Bill C-69.
“This is language we have not heard from any federal government in over a decade,” Moe said.
“We welcome those policy shifts. Those are going to make the opportunity for investment to flow very real.”
Moe noted a major shift in Ottawa discussions amid national energy security talks.
Saskatchewan has been actively promoting its uranium resources and nuclear technology on the international stage in recent months.
No timeline set
Although officials haven’t set a timeline, Moe expects progress on a western Saskatchewan nuclear project within several years.
In addition, officials are considering the Lloydminster area as Saskatchewan plans to meet growing electricity demands and support industrial expansion.
For example, engineers design small modular reactors as compact nuclear plants to deliver flexible, reliable energy for regional grids and industrial uses.
Ontario and the federal government announced $3 billion in combined funding for a small nuclear reactor project last year.
Source: Meridian Source