In a significant move to further small modular reactor (SMR) development in Saskatchewan, representatives from SaskPower and GE Vernova’s Nuclear business, GE Hitachi (GEH), convened in Regina to formalize a collaboration agreement.

This partnership allows SaskPower and GEH to work jointly on project planning, facilitating the exchange of expertise in the design, fuel sourcing, and fabrication processes for the BWRX-300 SMR. Additionally, it supports workforce and supply chain planning essential for deploying an SMR in Saskatchewan.

“Acquiring detailed technical specifications, requirements, and designs for the BWRX-300 is crucial for our planning and licensing applications,” stated Rupen Pandya, SaskPower President and CEO. “Utilizing the experience and knowledge from our nuclear industry colleagues is a vital part of our planning efforts.”

In June 2022, SaskPower selected the GE Hitachi BWRX-300 for its SMR development project. This innovative boiling water reactor, also chosen by Ontario Power Generation for the Darlington New Nuclear Project, generates approximately 300 MW per unit. The BWRX-300 leverages decades of operational success from large-scale nuclear power plants worldwide.

“This agreement is a pivotal step in supporting Saskatchewan’s workforce, businesses, and clean energy objectives,” said Lisa McBride, GEH Canada Country Leader. “The BWRX-300 revolutionizes the potential for generating reliable, carbon-free energy.”

GE Vernova’s Nuclear division, in collaboration with Hitachi, leads globally in providing nuclear fuel bundles, services, and advanced reactor designs. This agreement will streamline SaskPower’s planning and licensing process, informing its 2029 decision on whether to proceed with nuclear power in Saskatchewan.

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