Energy Alberta is considering two advanced, Canadian-owned nuclear reactor technologies: Atkins Réalis’ CANDU® and Westinghouse’s AP1000®.
While there are some differences in the design, the outcome is the same: deliver large-scale, reliable, low-emissions electricity that Alberta can depend on for decades.
The CANDU® and AP1000® build on decades of operating experience, incorporating proven features from existing plants alongside modern design updates that enhance safety, performance and efficiency, including modular construction, digital controls and advanced monitoring systems to support reliable, long-term operation.
Both options are based on proven technologies designed to meet rigorous Canadian and international safety standards. The final technology selection will be informed by Project‑specific requirements, lifecycle cost assessments, regulatory alignment and long‑term economic value.
CANDU®
Westinghouse AP1000®
The federal impact assessment process for the Project will use a Plant Parameter Envelope (PPE) approach. In simple terms, a PPE is a bounding "envelope" of parameters that define the site and plant characteristics, allowing assessments to begin before a reactor technology is selected.
This approach allows potential environmental, safety and socio-economic effects to be assessed now, rather than waiting for a final reactor selection. It ensures that potential impacts do not exceed what is defined within the PPE. This method has been used in previous nuclear project reviews in Canada and the United States.
Nuclear energy is the energy released from the nucleus (core) of atoms, primarily through a process known as nuclear fission. Fission is a reaction that occurs when atoms of uranium are split into two or more smaller nuclei. The process releases large amounts of energy in the form of heat, which is converted into electricity by creating steam in a nuclear power plant.
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The process begins in the reactor, where uranium atoms are split by neutrons. This releases a significant amount of heat.
The heat produced by fission is transferred to a separate system where it is used to turn water into steam.
The steam spins a turbine connected to a generator, which produces electricity.
After passing through the turbine, the steam is cooled and returned to water, which is then heated again to repeat the cycle. The cooling water used in this process is kept separate from the steam cycle and does not come into contact with the reactor core.
All of Canada’s used nuclear fuel is safely managed at licensed storage facilities.
Energy Alberta is deeply committed to protecting the water, air, land and people around our Project. Safety is not just a priority - it is at the core of our values. The use of nuclear power in clean energy production is tightly regulated and monitored to ensure the highest standards of public and environmental safety.
Learn moreOur news and updates section is your go-to source for the latest happenings, announcements and stories about Energy Alberta. Explore how we’re working to transform energy production in the province.
“If you want to build trust, you have to start by understanding the community - its history, its culture, its connection to the land and what matters to the people who call it home.” - Gaylene Whitehead
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“Ultimately, the Peace Region has a strong foundation, and there are a number of potential economic opportunities ahead. Our role as a local media business is to continue informing the community as those opportunities, projects and decisions develop.” - Lindsay Parenteau and Jonathan Babiy
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Every successful project starts with people. Long before construction plans take shape, there are conversations to have, communities to connect with, information to gather and early work to be done. As Energy Alberta advances the Peace River Nuclear Power Project, people and businesses across the Peace Region are helping make that work possible. Together, we’re building a foundation of opportunities for individuals and businesses interested in working with us.
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