N.S, Ontario sign MOU on nuclear energy

Nova Scotia is going to learn about nuclear energy from Ontario.

The two provinces signed a ‘memorandum of understanding,’ that will see them work together on small modular reactor technology.

Ontario Energy Minister Stephen Lecce was in Halifax to sign the understanding with Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston.

A reactor under construction in Bowmanville, Ontario received $2 billion from the feds.

Houston says Ontario is at the forefront of nuclear energy

“We’re happy to work with Ontario. Here in Nova Scotia, we have to explore a full-range of clean energy options, we just have to look at everything,” said Houston, who also took over as the province’s Minister of Energy this week.

Houston says no projects are on the horizon for Nova Scotia, but this is a great opportunity for both provinces.

“We’re going to share the expertise, learn from Ontario and see what’s possible. We’re open to options down the road.”

The project in Bowmanville will make Canada the first G7 country to have an operational reactor, Lecce says it’s expected to be ready by 2029.

“It’s the first type of project like this in the world. By doing it first, there’s lessons learned for the next ones,” said Lecce.