The Canadian Nuclear Workers’ Council (CNWC) has published a series of policy position papers advocating for the expansion of nuclear power in Canada. The papers argue that nuclear is the only clean and reliable energy source that can meet the demands of a growing economy, particularly as Canada transitions to electric transport.
The Electrification papers are living documents, updated frequently. Coming soon is a further paper focusing on the challenges facing urban grids that will soon import and use much more electricity than today. Watch this space.
The CNWC papers highlight the need for a holistic and integrated approach to electrification. They recommend that the government encourage investment in nuclear power plants to meet the increased demand for electricity that will result from electrifying transport and heating. They also call for investments in the transmission and distribution infrastructure necessary to deliver this significant additional power to consumers.
Key points raised in the CNWC papers:
- Passenger and Freight Rail: The CNWC supports the electrification of both passenger and freight rail systems. The papers argue that overhead catenary systems are more efficient and practical than battery-electric trains, particularly for heavy freight applications. The CNWC suggests a regional approach to freight rail electrification, focusing on urban areas where shunting and switching operations are concentrated and contribute significantly to air pollution and noise.
- Commercial and Personal Vehicles: The CNWC recommends a parallel focus on enabling the rapid uptake of battery-electric commercial trucks and personal vehicles. The papers emphasize the need for robust electrical distribution infrastructure to support charging for multiple vehicles at commercial fleet charging centres. The CNWC believes that focusing on commercial applications will spur faster growth of personal vehicle electrification as it will drive the development of charging infrastructure that can also be used by personal vehicles.
- Industrial Electrification: The CNWC recognizes the significant opportunities for industrial decarbonisation through electrification, particularly in Alberta’s oil sands. The papers argue that replacing natural gas with nuclear power as the primary energy source for process heat and hydrogen production is the only viable solution for achieving deep emissions reductions in this sector.
- Urban Electrification: The CNWC supports the electrification of various urban applications, including construction sites, recreational areas, and institutions. They recommend government support and incentives for local electricity distribution companies to provide grid connections to temporary sites and encourage the use of mobile electric power as a service.
- Financing Electrification: The CNWC papers also discuss the financial implications of electrification. They argue that while government subsidies may play a role, market-based financing mechanisms, such as green bonds and zero-emission credits, should be prioritized. The papers also stress the need for clear and transparent emissions reporting to ensure the environmental integrity of these financing mechanisms.
Toward an Electrified Future: a Call to Action
The CNWC policy positions represent a comprehensive call to action for decarbonizing Canada’s economy through the expansion of nuclear power. The papers highlight the need for collaboration between government, industry, banks, and utilities to develop and implement a holistic electrification strategy that addresses both the technical and financial challenges of this transition.
