SaskPower's SMR Public Engagement Strategy

Abstract

As Saskatchewan’s leading energy provider, Saskatchewan Power Corporation (SaskPower) maintains and operates a large fleet of electricity generation facilities. SaskPower is evaluating its long-term electricity supply strategy to meet a net-zero emissions target.

Nuclear Power from Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) is being assessed as a viable technology that can support the long-term goal of producing reliable power with zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from power generation. In March 2021, SaskPower’s Board of Directors approved the start of the planning phase for the SMR development project (project).

Establishing social licence for a nuclear power project in a greenfield jurisdiction requires early and ongoing information sharing and awareness building. This paper will highlight the comprehensive engagement strategy launched to support SaskPower in finding a suitable site for what may be Saskatchewan’s first nuclear power plant. Some of the areas that will be described in this paper are:

• An evolving engagement approach that identified new audiences through the early project planning process to aligned with project milestones;
• Engagement and communication approach with communities within the study areas and with the general public across the province; and
• Addressing public concerns and areas of interest (radiation, water contamination, waste management).