SaskPower plans to invest $4 million to help the University of Regina establish Western Canada’s first Small Modular Reactor Safety, Licensing, and Testing Centre. 

The Testing Centre, which will be located adjacent to the University of Regina at the Innovation Saskatchewan Research and Technology Park (R+T Park), will house two SMR “test loops,” which simulate a part of an SMR reactor. This allows for ongoing research and learning by students, academics and other professionals. 

“The Testing Centre will help to further establish Saskatchewan as a hub for nuclear excellence, advancing nuclear research, and supporting a local nuclear workforce and supply chain,” said Jeremy Harrison, Minister Responsible for SaskPower. “Nuclear power is central to our Government’s energy security strategy, which is why we are making the necessary investments to support industry readiness in the province.”

"Saskatchewan’s world-class research community is driving innovation with global impact,” said Warren Kaeding, Minister Responsible for Innovation Saskatchewan. “The SMR Testing Centre will strengthen partnerships between academia, industry and government, elevating Canada's leadership in energy research and nuclear technology solutions.”
The test loops will make it possible for Saskatchewan’s post-secondary institutions to offer new training and research programs in nuclear engineering, thermal-hydraulics, chemistry and safety. 

“Nuclear power generation will play a significant role in providing safe and reliable power to our customers in the coming decades,” said Rupen Pandya, SaskPower President and CEO. “Investments such as the Testing Centre will help to attract and develop the talent we need to help make that a reality.”

In addition to SaskPower’s contribution of $4 million, there are several other funding partners, including Prairies Economic Development Canada ($2 million) and Innovation Saskatchewan ($1 million plus an in-kind contribution of the leased space at the Innovation Saskatchewan R+T Park for the first three years of operation.) The Canadian Nuclear Laboratory (CNL) will also provide in-kind design support. 

“Saskatchewan has long been an energy leader, helping power Canada’s economy and strengthen our energy security,” said Eleanor Olszewksi, Minister responsible for Prairies Economic Development Canada. “Small modular reactors are the next step in that leadership — delivering reliable, affordable, and low-emission power while positioning Canada to be an energy superpower in a changing world. This investment in the University of Regina’s Small Modular Reactor Safety, Licensing and Testing Centre will create new opportunities for Saskatchewan researchers and businesses, advance Canada’s nuclear expertise, and help build a resilient energy future for generations to come.”

The centre will be led by University of Regina researchers. The Global Institute for Energy, Minerals and Society (GIEMS)—a partnership between the University of Regina, University of Saskatchewan, and Saskatchewan Polytechnic—will also play a key role to ensure all three institutions have access to the test loops for training and research. 

“The University of Regina is thrilled by today’s investment in the Small Modular Reactor – Safety Licensing and Testing Centre, a critical component of Saskatchewan’s nuclear future,” said Dr. Jeff Keshen, University of Regina President and Vice-Chancellor. “This new centre places our university at the heart of the province’s nuclear sector and positions us as a leader in SMR safety, licensing, and training in Western Canada. Through strong partnerships, we are advancing nuclear research while training the next generation of highly skilled professionals who will help shape Saskatchewan’s clean-energy future.” 

Learn more about SaskPower’s plans for a nuclear future at saskpower.com/nuclear. 

At a glance...

• SaskPower plans to invest $4M to help establish SMR test loop facilities at the University of Regina
• The Testing Centre will enable learning and boost Saskatchewan as a nuclear research hub 
• Learn more at saskpower.com/nuclear