Electricity is easy to take for granted - until you don’t have it.

Alberta is entering a period of rapid change, with population growth, electrification and new industries all driving higher electricity use. At the same time, governments have committed to achieving a net-zero electricity grid by 2050. Meeting both goals will require careful planning and new sources of clean, reliable power.

That’s where the Peace River Nuclear Power Project comes in.  
Demand is Rising - Fast

Canada’s electricity needs are expected to grow dramatically over the next few decades. National studies suggest demand could be more than double today’s levels by 2050. In Alberta, forecasts show electricity use increasing by roughly 50 per cent on average, with peak demand potentially doubling as more homes, vehicles and industries rely on electricity.

This growth means Western Canada will need significant new power generation - and not just any power. The grid needs energy that is reliable, available 24/7 and low-emitting.

What the Project Would Deliver

The proposed Peace River Nuclear Power Project is being planned as a four-unit nuclear facility using proven reactor technologies. Once complete, it could add roughly 4,000 megawatts of clean electricity to the grid - supplying a significant share of the province’s future power needs, supporting economic and industrial growth, and potentially providing electricity more broadly across Western Canada through interties.

The Project’s output would represent about 15 per cent of Alberta’s current electricity capacity and could meet up to 30 per cent of future demand, all while producing electricity without greenhouse gas emissions during operation.

Economic Benefits that Last for Generations

The Project builds on existing energy expertise while creating a new nuclear supply chain in Western Canada and expanding opportunities for skilled workers. It also opens the door to meaningful partnerships with Indigenous Nations and Communities, supporting economic participation, training and business development.

The Project would create significant long-term economic benefits. During the design and construction phase - which could span roughly 20 years - the Project is expected to support around 20,000 jobs each year across engineering, construction, trades and the broader supply chain.

Once the facility is operating, it could sustain approximately 3,500 jobs annually for up to 70 years, providing stable careers for generations. The Project could contribute an estimated $40.9 billion to Canada’s GDP during construction and $49.6 billion over its full operating life.

The governments of Alberta and Canada have committed to working together to plan and develop a nuclear generation strategy to support Alberta’s long-term electricity needs. This includes increasing reliable power supply for consumers and industry - including emerging demand from technologies like AI data centres - while supporting the goal of a net-zero electricity grid by 2050.

More Than Just Electricity

Modern nuclear facilities can offer added benefits beyond power generation. Certain reactor technologies can support Canada’s healthcare system by producing medical isotopes used in cancer treatment, diagnostic imaging and the sterilization of medical equipment. There is also potential for industrial applications and innovative behind-the-meter energy solutions that can further reduce emissions.

Why Renewables Alone Aren’t Enough

Wind and solar are important parts of Alberta’s energy future, but they depend on weather and time of day.  

With coal-fired electricity generation phased out, Alberta’s grid needs dependable, always-available power to maintain stability. Nuclear energy helps meet that need by providing consistent, dispatchable electricity that allows renewable energy to operate effectively alongside it. This combination is essential for achieving a net-zero grid without compromising reliability.

Planning for a Reliable, Net-Zero Future

The Project is about planning for Western Canada’s energy future today.

Meeting rising electricity demand while moving toward a cleaner grid will require reliable, large-scale power. Nuclear energy offers a proven solution - delivering clean, around-the-clock electricity that strengthens energy security, supports long-term economic growth and helps ensure Canada’s power system is ready for the decades ahead.

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