Canada is at a pivotal moment. Amidst an energy crisis, changing trade relationships and geopolitical instability and the energy transition, countries around the world — including right here at home — are looking for reliable, affordable and lower-carbon energy. As a clean, reliable form of baseload power, nuclear energy is increasingly seen as a global solution — and Canada is leading the way. In fact, our nuclear energy sector is a key factor that is helping position Canada as a trusted global energy supplier and partner.
In Canada, nuclear energy supports more than 90,000 good-paying jobs and provides approximately 13 percent of our electricity supply, contributing billions to the economy; providing reliable, sovereign electricity with zero carbon emissions; producing life-saving medical isotopes; and building supply chains using Saskatchewan’s first-class uranium resources. Advancing Canada’s nuclear energy sector is a key part of our new government’s plan to build a stronger, more resilient Canadian economy while advancing energy security and clean growth.
As we embark on this path, the Government of Canada will continue to prioritize managing used nuclear fuel safely and responsibly to ensure Canadians have confidence in our world-leading nuclear safety regime. The Government of Canada places the highest priority on protecting Canadians and is working in collaboration with the Nuclear Waste Management Organization (NWMO) to develop the proposed Deep Geological Repository (DGR) for used nuclear fuel.
The NWMO’s 2023–2025 Triennial Report highlights important progress in implementing Canada’s long-term plan for the safe management of used nuclear fuel. This includes the completion of the consent-based site selection process in 2024 and continued collaboration with Wabigoon Lake Ojibway Nation, the Township of Ignace, surrounding communities and Indigenous partners as the project advances through the federal regulatory review process.
Canada’s approach to nuclear energy is grounded in science, safety, partnership and long-term responsibility. The NWMO’s work will continue to play an important role in supporting public confidence in Canada’s clean energy future.
I invite Canadians to learn more about the NWMO’s work and progress through this report.
The Honourable Tim Hodgson, P.C., M.P.
Minister of Energy and Natural Resources