Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) are the next generation of nuclear energy innovation, with the potential to help address challenges and opportunities related to climate change and economic growth. The Canadian SMR Roadmap concluded that SMRs provide a source of safe, clean, affordable energy, with the ability to contribute towards a resilient, low-carbon future. SMRs can promote key benefits for Canada and Canadians, such as: meeting Canada’s climate change commitments, unlocking opportunities for job creation and economic growth; and sustaining and expanding Canada’s leadership in research and innovation.
The provinces of New Brunswick, Ontario, Saskatchewan, and Alberta entered a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) and committed to work co-operatively to advance the development and deployment of SMRs to address the needs of the provinces with regards to addressing climate change, regional energy demand, economic development (e.g., supply chain, fuel manufacture, skilled employment and export opportunities), and research and innovation opportunities.
This is an opportunity to learn about the initiative and the potential to generate low-carbon electricity safely, reliably, and inexpensively.
Brent Smith, PEng, FEC, FCAE, FCSSE, Manager, Operational Readiness, Advanced Reactor Development, New Brunswick Power Corporation
Brent Smith is a mechanical engineering graduate from the University of New Brunswick, with over 30 years as a Professional Engineer in New Brunswick. Brent has had several careers with NB Power, starting in engineering and construction before moving into the nuclear division. He has over 27 years of experience in nuclear power at an operating CANDU-6 facility (Point Lepreau) including leadership roles in Engineering, Reactor Inspections, Fuel Handling, Maintenance, Refurbishment, Nuclear Oversight & Quality Assurance, and now in Advanced Reactor Development.
He has participated in many industry organizations, forums, and peer working groups, and is currently the Chairperson of the CANDU Owners Group (COG) R&D Technology Forum.
Professionally, Brent is a Past-President of Engineers and Geoscientists New Brunswick and a Past-President of Engineers Canada. He holds Fellowships with Engineers Canada, the Canadian Academy of Engineering, and the Canadian Society of Senior Engineers. He is currently the President-Elect of Canadian Society of Senior Engineers.