Under the agreement, the initial focus will be on exploring possibilities for Westinghouse's AP300 small modular reactor (SMR) for both grid power and dedicated industrial purposes. The agreement also covers the investigation of opportunities for the eVinci microreactor to serve remote, stand-alone communities and industrial sites such as mines as well as supporting global AP1000 projects.
"We recognise the importance of having Indigenous rights holders as key decision makers for all new infrastructure projects, and we are committed to deepening our partnership with North Shore Mi'kmaq Tribal Council (NSMTC) as we work together to explore new build opportunities in New Brunswick," said Westinghouse Canada President John Gorman. "Westinghouse looks forward to a long and fruitful collaboration that will benefit the province, its people and its economy for years to come."
"Westinghouse is proud to work closely with NSMTC to share our industry-leading nuclear technology expertise to support New Brunswick's clean energy and economic objectives," said Dan Lipman, president of Westinghouse Energy Systems. "Based on the proven, licensed and operating AP1000 reactor, the AP300 SMR can provide clean, reliable, safe and affordable energy for rate payers, Indigenous communities, and industrial applications in the province."
Westinghouse launched its AP300 SMR, a scaled-down version of its AP1000 reactor, in May 2023. It describes the AP300 as an "ultra-compact, modular constructed unit that leverages the innovation and operational knowledge of the global AP1000 fleet" and will use identical AP1000 technology including "major equipment, structural components, passive safety, proven fuel and I&C systems".
"The North Shore Mi’kmaq Tribal Council knows SMR technologies are an essential part of the future of clean energy," said NSMTC General Manager Jim Ward. "This MoU marks an important step toward sustainability for our First Nations youth and communities. By exploring the technologies that Westinghouse brings to the table, we are advancing New Brunswick's clean energy strategy and creating economic opportunities for our NSMTC Member Nations, and for the province and region as a whole."
The NSMTC primarily serves seven Member Nations while extending support to 25 additional First Nations across Atlantic Canada. The council provides service delivery, technical support, and capacity-building in water and waste management, housing and infrastructure, post-secondary education funding, training and employment, community development, clean energy opportunities, environmental stewardship, and health service coordination. The NSMTC's mission is to foster the health, sustainability, and economic prosperity of its Member Nations.
In September 2023, the NSMTC and its seven First Nation member communities (Oinpegitjoig, Ugpi'Ganjig, Natoaganeg, L'nui Menikuk, Tjipogtotjg, Metepenagiag and Amlamgog) announced they were making financial investments in SMR developers Moltex Energy Canada Inc and ARC Clean Technology Canada Inc under historic equity agreements.
