Small modular reactors in Saskatchewan met with questions, concerns
Global News
While SMRs present a clean future, some worry the timeline for development and research could be too long, among other concerns.
Earlier this month, Federal Minister of Energy and National Resources Jonathan Wilkinson announced $74 million in funding for Saskatchewan to support the development of a small modular reactor (SMR) in the province.
In a news release, the federal government said we need to significantly increase the amount of non-emitting energy that we use to power our homes, businesses and industries.
“SMRs represent a new field of innovation in nuclear technology,” Wilkinson said. “One that has the potential to provide abundant non-emitting power and disperse economic activity and growth.”
SaskPower will be in charge of the SMR development in the province. Since joining the National SMR Action Plan in 2020, the company has engaged in discussions on land purchasing and discussions with community members around the two likely sites of operation, located in Elbow and Estevan.
Scott McGregor, spokesperson for the company, said people are curious to understand this new technology.
“We are certainly hearing some concerns, but probably the most that we are hearing is questions,” McGregor said.
“People want to know more about the project, more about the Canadian nuclear industry and how its regulated.”
The Saskatchewan Environmental Society (SES) has some concerns of its own, revolving around three subjects: timeline, cost and waste management.
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