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Nuclear power will play a key role in achieving the Federal Government's ambitious net zero targets – and organizations looking to deploy small modular reactors (SMRs) may qualify for funding.
On February 23, Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) launched the Enabling Small Modular Reactors Program, which will provide $29.6 million in funding over four years to eligible SMR research and development (R&D) projects. Currently, NRCan is accepting applications for projects aimed at:
- researching waste management solutions for SMRs
- developing supply chains for SMR manufacturing and fuel supply
SMRs are smaller in size and power output than conventional nuclear reactors and involve lower up-front capital investment. Their modular design allows many parts to be built in factories and assembled on site and is scalable to suit local needs.
Funding of up to $5 million available
Eligible R&D projects can request up to $5 million in funding. NRCan will fund up to 75% of the total project costs for successful applicants. Projects led by Indigenous applicants (defined as having at least 51% Indigenous ownership) may receive up to 100% of total project costs. Eligible activities include:
- research, development and related scientific activities
- engineering, technical and reliability assessments, feasibility studies
- environmental and regulatory studies
Waste management R&D projects
Projects that seek to manage and minimize the waste generated by SMRs may include:
- identifying and characterizing SMR waste streams
- researching waste management solutions
- developing strategies for waste reduction and disposal
- studying the long-term safety requirements for the storage of SMR waste
- studying packaging and transportation requirements for radioactive material
- researching techniques for managing non-fuel radioactive waste and contaminated materials
Supply chain R&D projects
Projects aimed at developing supply chains for SMR manufacturing and fuel supply may include:
- identifying the equipment and components needed for supply chain development
- developing manufacturing techniques to reduce SMR costs
- economic impact and gap analyses on the supply chains needed for deploying SMRs
- developing ways of characterizing and examining SMR fuels and fuel materials
- studying the economic impact of fuel fabrication and/or enrichment in Canada
- studying fuel processing options
- examining the regulatory process for licensing/certifying the packaging and transportation of enriched materials
- becoming a nuclear-qualified supplier
How to apply
Applications must be emailed to smr-prm@nrcan-rncan.gc.ca by April 7. Preference will be given to R&D projects that offer broad benefits to Canada. Applicants will be asked to describe the participation, engagement, and/or leadership of women and other identity groups in their project application.
Canada poised to become a leader in SMRs
As we discussed in a previous blog, Canada is poised to become a global leader in SMRs. Last year, the Federal Government announced a new tax credit for investments in SMR technology, and the Canada Infrastructure Bank provided $970 million in financing to build Canada's first SMR.
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