Small modular reactors (SMRs) are nuclear fission reactors that are smaller and less powerful than traditional reactors, with components that are built in a factory and transported on site for assembly. SMRs produce 10 to 300 megawatts of electricity (MWe). Reactors that produce 10 MWe or less are called microreactors.

While many SMR projects are being developed around the world, only a few have been built so far. Proponents of SMRs say the technology could support the transition to net-zero. SMRs could also provide electricity to remote mines and communities. Opponents of SMRs, meanwhile, say that SMR timelines are not adequate to address net-zero targets and raise concerns about waste and limited economic demand.

Several SMR projects are in the planning stages across Canada. Alberta, New Brunswick, Ontario and Saskatchewan jointly released a Strategic Plan for the Deployment of Small Modular Reactors in March 2022. The federal government also signaled its support for SMR development with its release of Canada’s SMR Action Plan in December 2020.

The House of Commons Standing Committee on Science and Research (the Committee) decided to undertake a study of SMRs to “better understand this emerging technology and how it can benefit both the environment and economy in Canadian society.”^[1]

In the course of its study, the Committee heard testimony on various aspects of SMR development in Canada, concentrating on the science and research aspects. The Committee also heard testimony on climate and the environment, the economic impact of SMR projects and community engagement.

Based on the testimony it heard, the Committee made eight recommendations to government.