Canadian Nuclear Laboratories (CNL), Canada’s leading nuclear science and technology organization, has expanded its Clean Energy Siting Program to support a broader range of clean energy technologies. Originally focused on small modular reactors (SMRs) and advanced reactor designs, the program now includes proposals for fusion-based technologies, hydrogen production, battery storage, and clean fuel production.
The program expansion aligns with Canada’s efforts to meet net-zero targets and support the growth of clean energy innovations. CNL’s President and CEO, Jack Craig, emphasized the importance of a diverse range of technologies working together to address climate change and enhance energy security.
AECL, the federal Crown corporation overseeing CNL, also supports the program’s expansion. Fred Dermarkar, AECL’s President and CEO, highlighted the value of connecting private sector partners with Canada’s nuclear science assets to foster clean energy development.
CNL will continue to work with SMR vendors while expanding efforts to support other clean energy technologies. The Clean Energy Siting Program involves four stages, with projects potentially located at Chalk River Laboratories or Whiteshell Laboratories. Both sites are on Indigenous lands, and meaningful engagement with Indigenous communities will be part of the process.
For more information on CNL’s Clean Energy Siting Program, visit www.cnl.ca.
(Written by: Emma Butler)
