NB Power Makes Presentation To Saint Andrews Town Council About The Future Of SMRs in New Brunswick

On Monday, March 6, 2023, at the first regular council meeting for the Municipality of Saint Andrews for the month of March, NB Power, the largest electric utility company in New Brunswick, made a presentation regarding their plans for the future of energy in the province. Of particular interest was the company's intention to introduce more small modular nuclear reactors, including at the LePreau Nuclear Generating Station.

The presentation began with a brief history of nuclear energy in New Brunswick, highlighting the importance of the Point Lepreau Nuclear Generating Station in meeting the province's energy needs. The station has been in operation since 1983 and currently provides approximately 30% of the province's electricity. However, NB Power now needs to explore more alternative energy sources to ensure a stable and sustainable energy supply for the province.

NB Power's proposed solution is the introduction of small modular nuclear reactors (SMRs), which are smaller and more flexible than traditional nuclear reactors. SMRs are designed to provide a more localized energy supply, which means they can be easily integrated into existing infrastructure and located closer to the communities they serve. Additionally, SMRs have a smaller environmental footprint and generate less waste than traditional reactors, making them a more sustainable and environmentally friendly energy source.

The presentation provided detailed information about the technology behind SMRs, their safety features, and the potential benefits of introducing them into New Brunswick's energy mix. The introduction of SMRs would create job opportunities in the construction and maintenance of the reactors and their associated infrastructure. Additionally, SMRs have the potential to attract new businesses to the province, as companies would be more likely to set up shop in an area with a stable and reliable energy supply.

The council members also raised questions regarding the safety and security of SMRs. NB Power assured the council that safety is their top priority and that SMRs undergo rigorous testing and regulatory approval before they can be introduced. Additionally, the reactors are designed with multiple layers of safety features to prevent accidents and mitigate any potential risks.

The presentation concluded with a proposal to introduce two SMRs at the LePreau Nuclear Generating Station. The reactors would be a significant upgrade to the current station and would provide a stable and sustainable energy supply for the province for years to come. The council members were impressed with the proposal and commended NB Power for their commitment to finding a sustainable energy solution for the province.

Overall, the Saint Andrews Town Council meeting on Monday, March 6, 2023, was a productive and informative discussion about the future of energy in New Brunswick. NB Power's presentation on small modular nuclear reactors was well-received by the council members, who recognized the potential benefits of introducing the technology into the province. As the province continues to search for a sustainable and reliable energy source, it is clear that small modular nuclear reactors could play a significant role in meeting those needs.