Wedoany.com Report-Apr. 20, Energy Alberta has submitted an Initial Project Description to the Impact Assessment Agency of Canada (IAAC) for the proposed Peace River Nuclear Power Project in Northern Alberta. The public and Indigenous communities are now invited to review the proposal and provide feedback to help shape the project’s development.

A rendering of the proposed Peace River plant

The project involves constructing a nuclear power plant on a 1,424-hectare site in the Peace River area. The facility would include two to four Candu Monark reactors, capable of producing up to 4,800 MWe, with an operational lifespan of approximately 70 years. The Initial Project Description outlines key design elements, the regulatory process, and engagement goals, aiming to incorporate stakeholder input to refine the final project plan.

The Peace River project is subject to an integrated assessment under the Impact Assessment Act and the Nuclear Safety and Control Act. The IAAC and the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) are collaborating to conduct a streamlined evaluation, following a “one project, one assessment” approach to ensure efficiency and thoroughness. “Our goal is to help build a new, secure and sustainable economy for all Albertans utilising Canada’s world-class Candu nuclear technology,” said Energy Alberta CEO and President Scott Henuset.

The IAAC and CNSC encourage Indigenous Nations, local communities, and the public to review the project summary and submit comments. Feedback should draw on local or Indigenous knowledge of the site and surrounding environment or offer relevant information to support the assessment. All comments will be published online as part of the project file, contributing to a summary of issues for Energy Alberta to address. “Energy Alberta has been actively engaged with local communities and Indigenous Nations, and we are committed to responsible and transparent relationships throughout the life of the project,” Henuset added. “By working closely and in consideration of local interests, we will ensure the project benefits all Albertans while remaining aligned with our core values of safety, sustainability, and environmental stewardship.”

The initiative aims to harness Canada’s nuclear expertise to generate economic benefits in Alberta, including high-paying jobs and substantial revenue. Energy Alberta prioritizes safety, sustainability, and collaboration with local stakeholders to align the project with regional interests and environmental objectives. The public comment period provides a vital opportunity for communities to contribute to a transparent and inclusive development process.