“Beyond clean energy, investments in nuclear
energy help to ensure stable electricity rates
for the future. Nuclear is among the most af-
fordable energy source available. In 2018, On-
tarians are paying 7.7 cents per kWh for nucle-
ar energy, versus 15.9 cents per kWh for wind,
18.8 cents per kWh for natural gas, and 51.3
cents per kWh for solar,” adds Dr. Barrett.
SMALL MODULAR
REACTORS
Another application that shows great poten-
tial in tackling domestic challenges comes in
micro reactors, also known as Small Modu-
lar Reactors (SMRs). Communities, especially
those in Northern regions, could use SMRs to
lessen their dependence on generators and
diesel within the next 10 years.
Dr. Barrett agrees there are very real path-
ways to SMR deployment, noting Canadian
nuclear research facility Chalk River Laborato-
ries would be primed to do research and de-
velopment for such projects. “To make these
ideas a reality requires a spark,” says Dr. Bar-
rett. “That spark is the government. Whether
it be through new policy and programming
support, legislative assistance, or investments
in nuclear innovation, we want to work with
governments at all levels to see practical,
iver
JULY 2018 | BUSINESS ELITE CANADA 77
