Saskatchewan’s government says it has released a plan to address energy security and electricity supply.

With Cameco as the backdrop Monday Crown Investments Corporation Minister Jeremy Harrison said Saskatchewan is proceeding with nuclear energy, in the form of an SMR or Small Modular Reactor, with a net zero commitment by 2050 with coal bridging the gap until that time.

We are going to nuclear. That is an essential part of the energy security strategy. It’s a formal commitment to nuclear. So, with regards to the SMR project we are working through that. We have a road map on the SMR. We also are keeping an open mind on large scale nuclear as a part of our future power mix as well.”

Cameco CEO Tim Gitzel says this is not just about meeting future energy needs but creating economic growth.

“It’s about turning electricity into and engine for economic development, innovation and sustainability. So, acting now getting ahead of the curve is critical. The world is moving fast, and Saskatchewan and Cameco are themselves not willing just to keep up but to lead this parade.”

Saskatchewan is hosting the inaugural Canadian Nuclear Association Can-West Conference in Saskatoon Monday through Wednesday which organizers say brings together industry experts, innovators, and decision-makers from across Canada. It is sold out with more than 500 people in attendance and will include keynote presentations, panel discussions as well as networking sessions.