SaskPower is moving forward with plans to select a site for its upcoming Small Modular Reactor (SMR) in the southeast, with a decision expected by 2025. Travis Sandeski, a consultant with SaskPower, confirmed that the focus is on identifying the right site, which will then lead to regulatory processes such as impact assessments and license applications.
“We’re learning a lot from the community,” Sandeski shared. “We’ve conducted a couple of drilling programs and have been engaging with both the community and Indigenous rights holders to gather valuable insights. The decision this year will help us focus on the next steps and better understand the potential impacts.”
Public interest remains high, with numerous questions being raised in community meetings. Sandeski noted that while questions vary, there is a common curiosity about the project’s future and its potential impacts. "It’s clear that people are eager to learn more, and everyone is coming at it from a different angle," he said.
Once a site is selected, SaskPower will begin site-specific activities, such as impact assessments and securing the necessary licenses. “After the site selection, we can move forward with the impact assessment and apply for the first licenses,” Sandeski explained.
Transparency is central to SaskPower’s approach. “Our goal is to be as transparent as possible, and we are always here to answer any questions,” Sandeski added.