Governments and utilities are working to expand Canada’s nuclear energy capacity in response to growing demand for electricity and goals of net-zero. Refurbishments and new reactors represent billions of dollars in investments and a sizeable economic impact. At the same time, small modular reactors (SMRs) are emerging as an alternative to fossil fuels in areas such as remote communities, and for industry.
As nuclear energy continues to gain momentum, where are the biggest risks, considerations and opportunities? On February 14, 2024 The Globe and Mail hosted an event where industry experts discussed the future of nuclear, how it’s reshaping the nation’s energy mix and why it matters.
The day’s first panel focused on what nuclear energy expansion means to Canada in view of the economy, environment and supply chain? Moderator Ryan MacDonald was joined on stage by John MacQuarrie, president of commercial operations, at BWXT Nuclear Energy Canada; James Scongack, chief operating officer and executive vice president at Bruce Power; Robin Manley, president of Paradymshyft Nuclear Advisory Ltd; and Aaron Johnson, senior vice president of nuclear at Aecon Group Inc.
The next discussion was focused on technological shifts and MacDonald was joined by Gary Rose, executive vice president of nuclear in Canada for AtkinsRéalis; and John Arthur Gorman, president of Westinghouse Canada.
The third panel of the day focused on the commercialization of small modular reactors (SMRs). Weighing in on the roadmap for growth were Suraj Persaud, associate professor of
mechanical and materials engineering at Queen’s University; Bruce Duong, senior program manager of advanced hydrocarbons at Alberta Innovates; and Rumina Velshi, strategic advisor for Torys LLP and former president and chief executive officer of the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission.
Next, April Fong from The Globe and Mail’s Report on Business interviewed Ehren Cory, chief executive officer of Canada Infrastructure Bank (CIB) on financing for nuclear projects in Canada.
The final discussion of the day focused on bridging the divide on nuclear in Canada. Fong interviewed Tracy Primeau, founder and principal of Agile Bear Consulting and board director, at OPG; as well as Sarah Roberton, senior vice president of corporate and public affairs at Environics Research and; Sean Willy, president and chief executive officer of Des Nedhe Group.
The Globe and Mail presented the event with sponsor support from Westinghouse Electric Company, Aecon Group Inc, Canadian Nuclear Laboratories, Canadian Union of Skilled Workers, Nuclear Waste Management Organization, LiUNA, SIMSA and Canadian Nuclear Association. To learn about upcoming Globe and Mail events visit www.globeandmail.com/events.
Event summary produced by The Globe and Mail Events team. The Globe’s editorial department was not involved.