SaskPower signs agreement with Bruce Power to explore large nuclear options
By Your Southwest Media Group
Saskatchewan is taking another step toward nuclear power as SaskPower signs a memorandum of understanding with Bruce Power to access expertise in nuclear generation, project development and long-term operations.
The agreement comes as the provincial government evaluates large-scale nuclear technologies alongside small modular reactors under its Energy Security Strategy.
In January, the province and SaskPower announced plans to formally assess large nuclear reactor options for potential deployment in Saskatchewan, with a focus on meeting rising electricity demand and supporting export opportunities tied to uranium and potash.
“Collaboration is key to ensure we make informed, future-focused decisions that benefit our provinces and our country,” Energy and Resources Minister Jeremy Harrison said.
SaskPower president and CEO Rupen Pandya said growing demand for reliable baseload power across Canada reinforces the role nuclear energy will play in supporting key industries, including mining, oil and gas, and agriculture.
The agreement will formalize information-sharing between the two organizations, align federal and provincial nuclear strategies, and draw on Ontario’s established nuclear supply chain.
Bruce Power chief operating officer James Scongack said the company will share lessons from more than two decades of operating the Bruce site and advancing new nuclear projects.
Located in Ontario, the Bruce Power site was home to Canada’s first commercial nuclear reactor, Douglas Point, which operated from 1967 to 1984. Its current fleet of eight CANDU reactors is undergoing refurbishment to extend operations for decades.
SaskPower is also expected to benefit from insights tied to Bruce Power’s proposed Bruce C Project, currently undergoing the federal impact assessment process.
The memorandum signals increasing interprovincial co-operation as more provinces look to nuclear power to meet long-term energy needs.