Saskatchewan has unveiled ambitious plans for nuclear energy development, with proposals to construct two large nuclear reactors in the northwest region of the province, aiming to have the first reactor operational by 2042. The Government of Saskatchewan has also identified the Rafferty site near Estevan for further examination as a potential location for small modular reactors (SMRs).
Premier Scott Moe introduced the province’s new strategy, “Delivering Energy Security Through Nuclear Power,” which sets a target of generating 2,600 megawatts (MW) of nuclear power by 2050. Moe expressed confidence in Saskatchewan’s abundant uranium resources, skilled workforce, and advancing nuclear expertise, positioning the province as a global frontrunner in nuclear energy.
Crown Investments Corporation Minister Jeremy Harrison outlined the four key priorities for nuclear development in the province, emphasizing the need to enhance electricity capacity for sustained growth, integrate large nuclear reactors into the electricity supply framework, continue nuclear advancements in Estevan, and leverage existing nuclear capabilities to support economic development.
The proposed 2,600 MW nuclear power generation objective signifies a substantial expansion from previous plans focused solely on SMR deployment. SaskPower’s recent data indicated a peak demand of 2,829 MW, with a historical high of 3,910 MW in December 2021. The selected SMR technology, the Hitachi BWRX-300, generates around 300 MW per unit.
While previous intentions to explore large nuclear technology were known, the official announcement marks the government’s detailed commitment. The exact locations for the two large nuclear reactors are yet to be specified, although potential sites along the North Saskatchewan River have been suggested by Moe. SaskPower plans to engage local communities and Indigenous groups in the site selection process.
Although the provincial government did not explicitly mention the specific reactor type for the large-scale projects, the involvement of Westinghouse’s CEO and references to the AP1000 Gen III+ reactor point to potential collaborations with Westinghouse and Cameco. Similar reactors are operational in other countries, producing approximately 1,100 MW each.
In parallel, SaskPower has advanced its SMR deployment plans, narrowing down the options to the Rafferty site for further evaluation. Estevan remains pivotal in the province’s nuclear energy roadmap, with a target of delivering 600 MW or two Hitachi BWRX-300 units. A final site decision is expected within the year, aligning with the projected operational timeline for the first SMR in the mid-2030s.
