Nuclear Energy in Canada: Companies in Alberta

In summary, the conversation discusses the current state of nuclear energy in Alberta and potential companies involved in its advancement. Bruce Power and AECL are mentioned as companies potentially interested in expanding into Alberta, while the Energy Club at the University of Alberta hosted a debate on the topic. The Ontario Hydro reorganization in 1999 is also mentioned, with the creation of Ontario Power Generation and Hydro One as separate companies.
  • #1
droogie01
10
0
Does anybody know of any companies currently involved with advancing nuclear energy in areas like Alberta?

I have two years of Astrophysics and on my 2nd year of Geophysics and want to really start getting into the professional aspect of nuclear energy (something i hope to make a career out of in another year or two)

thanks
 
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  • #2
Bruce Power was making waves about moving into Alberta, and setting up a nuclear reactor near the Oil Sands (Peace Country).
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bruce_Power

Interestingly, there was a student group at the University of Alberta that hosted a debate on bringing nuclear to Alberta (actually, it was this evening):
http://energyclub.wikidot.com/
 
  • #3
There is also AECL which is the firm that runs most of the power reactors in Canada. The problem is that you stated "advanced nuclear energy", and AECL only deals with candu type reactors. It is up to you to decide if candu type reactors are advanced.

Cheers
 
  • #4
by advancing i just meant incorporating them more into Alberta

and thanks ill definitely be looking into all three of those
 
  • #5
AECL is the developer or NSSS supplier of the CANDU reactor.

Ontario Hydro was the principle nuclear utility in Canada. In 1999, OH was reorganized into several separate companies.

http://www.opg.com/power/nuclear/index.asp
http://www.opg.com/nb/index3.asp

In 1998, the Progressive Conservative government of Mike Harris passed the Energy Competition Act which authorized the establishment of a market in electricity. In April 1999, Ontario Hydro was re-organized into five companies: Ontario Power Generation (OPG), the Ontario Hydro Services Company (later renamed Hydro One), the Independent Electricity Market Operator (later renamed the Independent Electricity System Operator), the Electrical Safety Authority, and Ontario Electricity Financial Corporation. The two commercial companies, Ontario Power Generation and Hydro One, were intended to eventually operate as private businesses rather than as crown corporations.
Ref: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ontario_Hydro
 
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1. What companies in Alberta are involved in nuclear energy?

Currently, there are no companies in Alberta directly involved in nuclear energy production. However, there are several companies that provide support services and supplies to the nuclear industry, including engineering firms, construction companies, and manufacturers. These include companies such as SNC-Lavalin, Babcock & Wilcox, and Westinghouse Electric.

2. Does Canada have any nuclear power plants in Alberta?

No, there are no nuclear power plants in Alberta. The only nuclear power plants in Canada are located in Ontario and New Brunswick. However, there are plans to potentially build small modular reactors in Alberta in the future.

3. How much of Alberta's energy comes from nuclear sources?

Currently, none of Alberta's energy comes from nuclear sources. The province relies mainly on fossil fuels such as oil and natural gas for its energy needs. However, there are discussions about diversifying Alberta's energy mix in the future, which may include incorporating nuclear energy.

4. Are there any environmental concerns related to nuclear energy in Alberta?

There are potential environmental concerns associated with nuclear energy, such as the risk of accidents and the disposal of nuclear waste. However, nuclear energy is considered to be a low-carbon energy source, which can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and combat climate change. It is important for proper safety measures and waste management practices to be in place to mitigate any potential risks.

5. What are the regulations for nuclear energy in Alberta?

The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) is responsible for regulating nuclear energy in Canada, including in Alberta. The CNSC sets strict safety standards and conducts regular inspections to ensure that all nuclear activities, including research and development, are conducted safely and responsibly. Alberta also has its own provincial regulations and guidelines for nuclear energy, which are in line with federal standards.

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