Time is ticking for a major polluting power plant in Canada, and two Mi’kmaw bands in New Brunswick are advocating for an Indigenous-owned movable nuclear power station to bolster the nation’s commitment to cleaner energy sources.
Leaders in Pabineau (Oinpegitjoig) and Eel River Bar (Ugpi’ganjig) are contemplating hosting a small modular reactor (SMR) near the Belledune generating station, which is mandated to cease coal burning by 2030.
The initial phase of the project aims to provide sufficient baseload power for around 40,000 households.
Chief Terry Richardson of Pabineau expressed concern over the significant CO2 emissions into the atmosphere and highlighted the potential for shared benefits if the initiative progresses.
“Currently situated in Pabineau and Eel River Bar traditional territories, we will spearhead this endeavor,” Chief Richardson stated. “However, why not involve all First Nations communities in New Brunswick at some point?”
Small modular reactors derive their name from producing approximately one-third of the power generated by a full-scale nuclear reactor like N.B. Power’s Candu-6, which can cater to up to 40% of New Brunswick’s electricity requirements.
Moreover, the modular components allow for factory construction in one location and subsequent assembly in another.
Prodigy Clean Energy, a Canadian firm engaging with First Nations members, envisions a commercial fleet of movable nuclear power plants assembled at the Port of Belledune and transported worldwide in the project’s next phase.
Although the technology remains untested within G7 nations for timely and budgeted construction, the company, backed by $2.75 million in federal support, has gained the bands’ trust and attention.
Eel River Bar’s second term band councillor, Karen Narvie, noted Prodigy’s partnership offer as transparent and genuine during community discussions.
She expressed growing interest in organizing a community visit to the Point Lepreau nuclear generating station.
Band leaders are anticipated to journey to Ontario
