The Saskatchewan Research Council (SRC) and Meadow Lake Tribal Council (MLTC) announced that a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed to create a framework for collaboration regarding the applications of microreactors in MLTC’s communities.
“The Meadow Lake Tribal Council is pleased to commence work alongside SRC in exploring new clean energy technologies,” MLTC Tribal Chief Richard Ben said. “Specifically, our joint effort evaluating how microreactor technology may assist our rural and remote Saskatchewan First Nation communities. Through this collaboration with SRC, MLTC hopes to gain a better understanding of nuclear energy technology and deployment options in addressing long standing issues related to reliable and affordable heat and power in northern communities.”
The Saskatchewan government announced in November 2023 that SRC will receive $80 million in financing to pursue microreactor licensing and commercial deployment.
“The knowledge and expertise gained from SRC’s initial microreactor project will be shared with our Indigenous communities and organizations to help them evaluate whether this technology has applications that can help them meet their unique edge-of-grid power needs and industrial clean energy requirements,” Minister Responsible for SRC Jeremy Harrison said. “Developing microreactors in Saskatchewan will have a huge impact on the provincial economy, creating social and economic opportunities.”
MLTC works as an advocate, delivering programs and services for their communities. Nine First Nations currently form the MLTC: Birch Narrows Dene Nation, Buffalo River Dene Nation, Canoe Lake Cree Nation, Clearwater River Dene Nation, English River First Nation, Flying Dust First Nation, Makwa Sahgaiehcan First Nation, Ministikwan Lake Cree Nation, and Waterhen Lake First Nation.
SRC is Canada’s second-largest research and technology organization. For more information, visit www.srcnuclear.ca