Canada is planning to construct up to 10 new nuclear reactors within the next 15 years, expand the sale of Canadian-made reactors to more countries, and double uranium exports, according to Energy Minister Tim Hodgson. Hodgson unveiled a new national strategy for nuclear power, describing it as a blueprint for a “new civilian nuclear renaissance” aimed at increasing the country’s electrical grid capacity twofold by 2050.

During a news conference in Newmarket, Ont., Hodgson emphasized the necessity of nuclear energy for achieving the goal of a low-carbon economy and doubling the country’s grid capacity. He stressed that nuclear power is crucial for providing clean and reliable baseload power, stating that without it, Canada cannot become an energy superpower.

The strategy outlines plans to commence construction on two new large-scale reactors by 2035, with five more in the pipeline or under development by 2040. Additionally, at least one reactor is expected to be under construction outside Ontario by 2035. A Canadian-made microreactor is slated for completion by 2035 and deployment in a remote community by the late 2030s.

Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre expressed skepticism about the plan, highlighting the need for tangible results rather than mere announcements. Currently, Canada operates four nuclear power plants, with a proposed facility at the Darlington nuclear plant in Ont. set to house the first small modular reactor in the G7, capable of generating up to 300 megawatts per unit.

The collaboration between Ottawa and Alberta aims to develop a strategy for a nuclear power plant. Officials estimated that the construction of the new reactors outlined in the strategy could exceed $100 billion in costs. Funding sources such as the Canadian Infrastructure Bank and the Canada Growth Fund were suggested for financing the project.

The strategy also focuses on expanding the sales of Candu reactors to new export markets, aiming to break into at least four international markets by 2040. The document emphasizes the importance of establishing Canada as a reliable uranium export partner and leveraging nuclear energy as a geopolitical tool.

Prime Minister Mark Carney was not involved in developing the strategy due to an ethics screen in place to prevent conflicts of interest. The plan underscores the significance of reactor exports in fostering long-term partnerships and advancing Canada’s foreign policy interests.

In the event that global sales of Candu reactors fall short, the strategy proposes enhancing domestic uranium enrichment to support other reactors. Candu reactors, unlike most others, do not require enriched uranium, aligning with the trend of Western allies reducing reliance on Russian uranium supplies.

The strategy reaffirms the proposal to transfer impact assessments for nuclear projects to the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission, a move aimed at streamlining regulatory processes. However, implementation is pending while the government engages in consultations with various stakeholders, including environmental and Indigenous groups.

Poilievre emphasized the need for concrete outcomes rather than promises, advocating for the removal of barriers to energy development to ensure affordable and abundant energy sources across Canada.