By Ontario Hydro - Hydro News, November/December 1972, Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=181300009
EDMONTON — Alberta, Saskatchewan and the Northwest Territories have signed an agreement to explore nuclear energy development and strengthen electricity connections across the region.
The memorandum of understanding creates a framework for the three jurisdictions to share information and work together on nuclear technologies, including large-scale reactors, small modular reactors and microreactors.
The agreement also calls for cooperation on new and expanded electricity interties between Alberta, Saskatchewan and the Northwest Territories.
Premier Danielle Smith says Alberta’s growing economy will require more reliable power.
“Nuclear energy has enormous potential to provide dependable power for our homes and businesses and support the continued growth of our energy sector,” Smith said.
“By working with Saskatchewan and the Northwest Territories, we can strengthen connections between our electricity grids and explore new opportunities to deliver reliable, affordable power across the region.”
The three governments say the agreement is focused on improving the security, reliability and long-term affordability of their electricity systems while examining nuclear energy as a possible source of carbon-neutral generation.
They also plan to explore opportunities to expand transmission infrastructure.
Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe says the partnership could help strengthen regional transmission connections and support long-term grid resiliency.
Under the agreement, the governments will collaborate on reactor technology selection and development, financing, environmental assessments, regulatory and federal approval processes, uranium fuel supply and transportation, and nuclear waste management.
Northwest Territories Premier R.J. Simpson says stronger connections between electrical grids could create new opportunities for the North.
“With new generation opportunities close to the NWT’s southern border currently being examined, we need to understand what that could mean for us and how we can benefit,” Simpson said.
The governments say stronger regional interconnections could support a range of generation technologies, including nuclear, natural gas, wind, solar, hydro and battery storage.
Alberta released the final report from its Nuclear Energy Engagement and Advisory Panel in April. The province says the report will guide development of a nuclear energy roadmap expected in early 2027.
Alberta also signed a transmission interties partnership agreement with Saskatchewan and the Northwest Territories in March aimed at developing a national energy corridor.
The province previously signed an agreement with Saskatchewan in 2024 to advance nuclear generation, industrial decarbonization and grid capabilities.
Comments