Canada has made significant investments in its country’s CANDU reactor technology to strengthen its nuclear leadership.
CANDU reactors are globally recognized for their reliability and efficiency and have long played an important role in the Canadian energy landscape.
The Canadian government is taking critical action to modernize and expand the technology as demand for safe, unemitted electricity grows.
Minister of Energy and Natural Resources Jonathan Wilkinson recently announced a preliminary agreement with Atkinsrealis to support the development of a new, large-scale CANDU reactor.
Major investments in CANDU reactor development
As part of the agreement, the Canadian government will provide up to $304 million over four years to fund half of the design project for Atkinsrealis, the next-generation CANDU reactor known as Monarch.
The initiative will also involve the atomic energy of Canada Limited (AECL), which owns CANDU’s intellectual property, along with operators and the broader Canadian supply chain.
A Canadian-designed technology with natural uranium fuel, Candu Reactor plays a pivotal role in Canada’s energy infrastructure and is exported to many countries looking for clean, reliable energy solutions.
With this modernization initiative, the government aims to provide the latest, cost-effective CANDU reactor designs that will enhance the expansion of both domestic and international nuclear energy.
Ian Edwards, president and CEO of Atkinsrealis, added:
“Advanced CANDU technology creates economic value for the country and Canadians. We guarantee energy security at this critical time. We improve health outcomes through the creation of more cancer-fighting isotopes. We build stronger and more resilient relationships with Indigenous peoples, workers and communities. And, among other things, our position as a tier-1 nuclear nation in Canada.”
Strengthening Canada’s nuclear supply chain
CANDU reactors are extremely advantageous due to their fully designed and supply chain based in Canada.
They create long-term, highly paid jobs across Canada, particularly in manufacturing and uranium mining.
Unlike many other nuclear technologies, CANDU reactors use natural uranium mined in Saskatchewan, eliminating the need for enrichment and ensuring energy independence.
Modernising the CANDU reactor will support allies in the transition to clean generation while enhancing Canada’s energy security.
Investing in small modular reactors
Beyond the advancements of Candu Reactor, Canada is also investing in emerging nuclear technologies such as small modular reactors (SMRs).
Minister Wilkinson has announced $55 million in funding from the Future Power Fund to support Darlington’s new nuclear project for Ontario power generation.
This project advances three GE Hitachi BWRX-300 SMRS. Each can generate 300 megawatts of zero emissions.
Additionally, funding for SaskPower SMR development in Saskatchewan has increased from $24 million to $80 million, supporting pre-engineering research, environmental assessment and community engagement efforts.
Minister Wilkinson commented: “Nuclear power is an integral part of Canada’s future of resilient, independent energy, and CANDU technology is helping us get there.
“By moving forward with innovative projects like Monark Reactors, the government is strengthening its commitment to domestically processed uranium, which creates good paying jobs in Ontario and across the country.
“Through the new nuclear project in Darlington, Alberta and investments in SMRS, we are providing a powerful example of how the public and private sectors can work together to enhance energy security, advance cutting-edge Canadian nuclear technology, and promote a clean, reliable energy future.”
Nuclear capabilities expand across Canada
The Canadian government has also invested $52.4 million in projects that support the development and deployment of both CANDU reactors and SMRs across Saskatchewan, Alberta and Ontario.
These investments aim to position Canada as a global leader in clean energy solutions.
With strategic investments in nuclear energy, Canada is ensuring a sustainable and resilient electricity grid for the future, while strengthening its role as a major energy supplier.
By modernizing Candu Reactor Technology and supporting SMR innovation, the country is paving the way for a cleaner and safer energy landscape.
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