Canada's Nuclear Industry and Future Dependence on Foreign Fuel

Canada's nuclear industry was established with the goal of self-sufficiency, primarily through the use of Candu reactors that were supported by a national supply chain for fuel. Historically, this framework allowed Canada to maintain control over its fuel sources and technology, fostering a sense of security in the energy sector. However, recent developments in Ontario and other provinces indicate a notable shift towards the adoption of small modular reactors (SMRs), which necessitate foreign uranium enrichment and fabrication processes. This reliance on external sources of fuel represents a departure from the self-reliant strategies that characterized Canada's nuclear energy policy for decades. As various provincial governments contemplate the implementation of SMRs, the implications of this transition on energy independence and national security are being assessed, raising questions among stakeholders about the future landscape of Canada's nuclear industry.