Site Condition Challenges for Small Modular Reactor Installations in Remote Northern Canada Communities

Abstract

The paper reviews some salient impacts of climate warming in the circumpolar Arctic, with particular reference to the Northwest Territories of Canada. Remote communities in the Arctic are possible locations for some of the first operating Small Modular Reactor (SMR) installations. The SMR concept provides several advantages to remote communities, including electrical power generation and heat for district heating and small industry. Regardless of whether an SMR is installed above or below ground, permafrost conditions must be protected. Installation in bedrock is preferred to installation in permafrost soils, but bedrock may not be as stable as expected. The paper concludes with examples of unstable bedrock conditions in the presence of melting permafrost.