Canada is reinforcing its leadership in nuclear power with significant investments in its homegrown CANDU reactor technology.
Recognised globally for its reliability and efficiency, CANDU reactors have long played a crucial role in Canada’s energy landscape.
With rising demand for secure, non-emitting electricity, the Canadian Government is taking decisive action to modernise and expand this technology – ensuring a resilient energy future for both domestic and international markets.
Jonathan Wilkinson, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, recently announced a preliminary agreement with AtkinsRéalis to support the development of a new large-scale CANDU nuclear reactor.
Major investment in CANDU reactor development
As part of this agreement, the Government of Canada will provide up to $304m over four years to finance half of AtkinsRéalis’ design project for the next-generation CANDU reactor, known as MONARK.
This effort will also engage Atomic Energy of Canada Limited (AECL), which owns the CANDU intellectual property, along with operators and the broader Canadian supply chain.
The CANDU reactor, a natural uranium-fuelled and Canadian-designed technology, has played a pivotal role in Canada’s energy infrastructure and has been exported to numerous countries seeking clean and reliable energy solutions.
With this modernisation initiative, the government aims to provide an updated, cost-effective CANDU reactor design that will bolster both domestic and international nuclear energy expansion.
Ian Edwards, President and Chief Executive Officer at AtkinsRéalis, added: “We are honoured to have the full faith and confidence of the Government of Canada in continuing our development of proven homegrown CANDU technology.
“Advancing CANDU technology creates economic value for the country and Canadians; ensures energy security at this critical time; improves health outcomes through the creation of more cancer-fighting isotopes; builds stronger and more resilient relationships with Indigenous Peoples, workers and communities; and — above all —maintains Canada’s status as a Tier-1 nuclear nation.”
Strengthening Canada’s nuclear supply chain
CANDU reactors are uniquely advantageous due to their entirely Canadian-based design and supply chain.
They create long-term, well-paying jobs across Canada, particularly in manufacturing and uranium mining.
Unlike many other nuclear technologies, CANDU reactors use natural uranium mined in Saskatchewan, eliminating the need for enrichment and ensuring energy independence.
Modernising the CANDU reactor will strengthen Canada’s energy security while supporting its allies in transitioning to cleaner electricity generation.
Investments in small modular reactors
Beyond CANDU reactor advancements, Canada is also investing in emerging nuclear technologies like small modular reactors (SMRs).
Minister Wilkinson announced $55m in funding from the Future Electricity Fund to support Ontario Power Generation’s Darlington New Nuclear Project.
This project will advance three GE Hitachi BWRX-300 SMRs, each capable of generating 300 megawatts of zero-emission electricity – enough to power approximately 900,000 homes.
Additionally, funding for Saskatchewan’s SaskPower SMR development has increased from $24m to $80m, supporting pre-engineering studies, environmental assessments, and community engagement efforts.
Minister Wilkinson commented: “Nuclear is an integral part of Canada’s resilient and independent energy future, and CANDU technology is helping us get there — while creating good domestic jobs and supporting international Canadian energy exports.
“By advancing innovative projects like MONARK reactors, this government is reinforcing our commitment to domestically sourced and processed uranium, which is creating good-paying jobs in Ontario and throughout the country.
“Through investments in the Darlington New Nuclear project and SMRs in Alberta, we are providing a powerful example of how public and private sectors can work together to enhance energy security, advance cutting-edge, made-in-Canada nuclear technologies, and deliver a clean and reliable energy future.”
Expanding nuclear capacity across Canada
The Government of Canada is also investing $52.4m in projects that support the development and deployment of both CANDU reactors and SMRs across Saskatchewan, Alberta, and Ontario.
These investments aim to decarbonise energy grids, expand nuclear capacity, and position Canada as a global leader in clean energy solutions.
With strategic investments in nuclear energy, Canada is reinforcing its role as a key energy supplier while ensuring a sustainable and resilient power grid for the future.
By modernising CANDU reactor technology and supporting SMR innovation, the country is paving the way for a cleaner, more secure energy landscape.
