Canada is making significant strides in its clean energy ambitions with the fast-tracking of the Darlington Small Modular Reactor (SMR) project. This initiative aims to position Canada as a global leader in SMR technology, with the first reactor expected to be operational in the G7.
Key Takeaways
- Canada’s Darlington SMR project is being fast-tracked for approval.
- The project aims to make Canada the first G7 country with an operational SMR.
- The first SMR is expected to provide 300 megawatts of power.
- The project is anticipated to create thousands of jobs during construction and operation.
- Environmental groups have raised concerns about cost and timelines.
Darlington SMR Project Gains Momentum
Ontario Premier Doug Ford expressed his satisfaction as the Darlington Small Modular Reactor (SMR) project was included in a federal list of "nation-building" projects slated for expedited approval. This move by the federal government, under Prime Minister Mark Carney, aims to streamline the process for key infrastructure developments. Shovels are already in the ground at the Darlington site, east of Toronto, for the first of four planned SMRs, marking a significant step in Canada’s nuclear energy strategy.
Powering the Future and Economic Growth
The Darlington New Nuclear Project is projected to be the first SMR deployed in a developed G7 nation. The initial reactor is designed to generate 300 megawatts of power, sufficient to supply approximately 300,000 homes. Beyond electricity generation, the project is expected to create around 200 high-paying jobs during its operational phase, in addition to an estimated 1,600 jobs during the construction period. The federal government anticipates that the project will position Canada as a leader in SMR technology, with potential for export by 2030.
Local and National Impact
Clarington Mayor Adrian Foster highlighted the project’s importance for the local economy, noting the long-standing benefits the community has received from the nuclear industry. He also pointed to the international attention the project is garnering, with delegations from various countries visiting to observe the SMR development. Ontario’s Energy and Mines Minister, Steve Lecce, emphasized the need for decisive action to meet future power demands, stating that by 2050, Canada will require 75% more power. He also noted that 80% of the project’s spending will benefit Ontario companies.
Environmental Concerns and Project Details
While the project moves forward, some environmental advocacy groups, like Environmental Defence, have voiced concerns. Tim Gray, executive director of Environmental Defence, described SMRs as potentially expensive, slow to build, and unproven, suggesting that cheaper alternatives might be available. Despite these concerns, the federal government has set a timeline of no longer than two years for the final approvals of these fast-tracked projects. The BWRX-300, the SMR design chosen for Darlington, is a 300-MW water-cooled reactor with passive safety systems, based on a licensed U.S. design. Reports indicate the first unit could cost C$6.1 billion, with the total cost for four units estimated at CAD21 billion, and they are expected to operate for 65 years.
