Powering Alberta's tomorrow
In January 2024, Capital Power and Ontario Power Generation (OPG) launched a preliminary study exploring the feasibility of deploying grid-scale Small Modular Reactor (SMR) nuclear generation in Alberta. This study was driven by the growing need for a reliable, low-emitting energy source to meet the province's projected doubling of electricity demand by 2050. We examined everything from technology and location to market dynamics and, most importantly, the perspectives of Albertans.
This study explored SMR technologies, policy, economic benefits, and commercialization with a key focus on listening to the perspectives of Indigenous communities and local stakeholders.
What we heard
Understanding and respecting Indigenous and local community perspectives is the foundation of our engagement activities. We connected with communities across north-central Alberta to share information about nuclear energy, creating the space for open discussion about community interests and topics of concern.
Early engagement feedback suggests communities are curious about nuclear energy and receptive to the possibility of future SMR development. Many expressed openness to continued communications, interest in learning more about nuclear power, and participating in project planning activities.
There was a general degree of open receptiveness to SMR development in each of the three potential host regions
Key areas of interest included training and employment, equity partnerships, education and awareness, and ongoing communication
Key areas of concern included water, nuclear waste and human health
As local residents, we are huge proponents of this project. It would be such a win for the success and sustainability of the area, creating jobs, injecting investment, re-commissioning infrastructure, cleaning up the grid, supporting Canadian industries, and providing a vision for the future. We would love to have you here.
People need education. Concerns are already being expressed over the risks and dangers of nuclear waste.
Download the What We Heard Summary Report
Publication Date: March 31, 2025
Number of Pages: 8
Publisher: Captial Power
Download the What We Heard Summary Report
Publication Date: March 31, 2025
Number of Pages: 8
Publisher: Captial Power
Positive Support. Positive Results. Positive Future for SMRs in Alberta.
The feasibility study advances our belief that SMRs can be a viable solution to support Alberta's growing need for a reliable and balanced energy mix that communities need, bringing considerable economic and social benefits that Albertans want.
Socio-economic benefits
Deployment of a SMR nuclear project in Alberta could generate considerable economic and social benefits:
- 4,200 construction jobs and 1,100 operations jobs
- $10 billion in wages for Alberta's workforce
- 80% localization of goods and services with development of advanced manufacturing capabilities
Technically feasible
SMRs position Alberta at the forefront of innovation bolstering its status as an energy leader and hub for cutting-edge technology and exportable expertise
Reliable baseload
SMRs are the 'right fit' for Alberta's established resource and emerging technology sectors contributing to a balanced mix of generation assets to achieve a reliable and affordable grid
Download the Feasibility Study At-a-Glance
For those who want the key takeaways and data, this summary provides a high-level overview of the feasibility study's findings.
Next steps
Feedback from early engagement activities contributes valuable insights into the degree of public support for SMR development in Alberta. Ultimately, what we heard provides an early signal as to whether to proceed further into subsequent phases, selection of a potential host region and site, and how to communicate, collaborate and support participation in future project planning activities.
