Nova Scotia Premier Houston Seeks Insights from Ontario’s Nuclear Project

Nova Scotia’s Premier Tim Houston is taking steps to explore small modular reactor (SMR) technology by partnering with Ontario. Following a recent cabinet shuffle, Houston, who also assumed the role of energy minister, signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on March 15, 2024, with Ontario’s Minister of Energy and Mines Stephen Lecce. This agreement aims to facilitate the exchange of knowledge and expertise related to nuclear energy development.

During the signing ceremony, Houston emphasized the intent to collaborate on various aspects, including technological readiness, regulatory frameworks, supply chains, financing, and nuclear waste management. “We’ll work together to engage with the federal government,” he noted. This partnership is part of a broader initiative, as other provinces such as New Brunswick, Saskatchewan, and Alberta have also established similar agreements with Ontario.

Advancements in Nuclear Technology

The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission defines small modular reactors as smaller in size and output compared to traditional nuclear power plants, highlighting their enhanced safety features. Ontario’s Darlington nuclear plant has been designated a project of national interest by the Prime Minister this fall. The planned expansion of this facility will position Canada as the first G7 country to operate an SMR, with expectations to connect it to the grid by 2029.

Once operational, Ontario’s SMR project is projected to supply clean energy to approximately 300,000 homes and create around 200 operational jobs, alongside an estimated 1,600 jobs during the construction phase. On the same day as the MOU signing, the federal and Ontario governments announced a joint investment of $3 billion for the construction of four small nuclear reactors in the Greater Toronto Area. Lecce remarked, “This is about value added to our Ontario ratepayers and taxpayers,” while stressing the collaborative spirit among Canadian provinces in advancing clean energy initiatives.

Concerns and Criticism

Despite the MOU, Premier Houston clarified that there are currently no contracts in place for the purchase of SMR technology, stating, “At this stage, we don’t have a contract to buy one. We haven’t committed any dollars towards it right now.” The Premier underscored the importance of understanding the potential of SMR technology before making any commitments.

Opposition voices have raised questions regarding the benefits of this technology for Nova Scotians. Claudia Chender, leader of the New Democratic Party, expressed skepticism, stating, “It’s not going to help us with our energy mix. It’s not going to help us with our energy affordability, and we don’t see any jobs coming.” Chender characterized the agreement as merely a “shiny announcement” lacking tangible results for the province.

Environmental organizations, too, have voiced their concerns about the province’s pursuit of nuclear technology. Badia Nehme from the Ecology Action Centre criticized the move, describing it as an “industrial greed response” rather than a practical solution for Nova Scotia’s energy needs. Nehme highlighted that the province appears more focused on exporting energy solutions than addressing local requirements.

Moreover, there are ongoing concerns regarding the environmental impact of SMRs. Nehme pointed out that these projects involve the use of irradiated fuel bundles, which must be stored safely for hundreds, if not thousands, of years. “Especially with experimental technology, we need to ensure that things are safe and prioritize communities, people, and the environment,” she emphasized.

While SMRs are presented as clean energy alternatives capable of reducing reliance on fossil fuels, some critics argue that their implementation may not be suitable for densely populated areas like Nova Scotia. Keith Brooks, programs director with Environmental Defence Canada, expressed his preference for renewable energy sources, stating, “I wouldn’t want an SMR in my backyard. But I wouldn’t mind having solar panels on my roof or a wind power project near a rural property.”

The ongoing dialogue around SMR technology in Nova Scotia highlights the balance between innovation, environmental concerns, and the actual energy needs of the province’s residents. As the situation develops, the implications of this MOU will continue to be scrutinized by both advocates and critics alike.