Saskatchewan is planning a major expansion into nuclear energy, aiming to add roughly 2,600 megawatts of nuclear generation capacity to the provincial power grid by 2050.
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Premier Scott Moe outlined the updated Energy Security Strategy on Sept. 29 in Saskatoon, describing the initiative as one of the largest energy and economic development opportunities in the province’s history.
The strategy includes building two large-scale nuclear reactors in northwestern Saskatchewan—with the first targeted to come online around 2042—alongside two small modular reactors (SMRs) near Estevan.
“Success to all of this investment, and what is necessary for all of this investment, is access to abundant, reliable, and affordable electricity,” Moe said. “Nuclear power is more than just an energy source; it is a nation-building opportunity.”
The proposed 2,600 megawatts would generate enough electricity to power approximately 2.6 million homes.
As part of the regional energy vision, Saskatchewan recently signed a memorandum of understanding with Alberta and the Northwest Territories to collaborate on nuclear energy development and strengthen interprovincial grid connections. SaskPower has also partnered with Bruce Power Corporation to leverage nuclear expertise and established an SMR licensing and testing center at the University of Regina.
Saskatchewan NDP Leader Carla Beck stated her party supports nuclear power development in principle, but called on the government to release full details regarding costs, timelines and implementation plans.
The province, which ranks as the world’s second-largest producer of uranium, plans to use its own domestic supply to fuel the future reactors. Sites currently under consideration for the Estevan-area SMRs include locations near the Boundary Dam and Rafferty reservoirs.
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