Atomic solution? The nuclear option is again touted for Alberta's oilsands

As early as the 1950s, nuclear blasts were considered as a potential way to unlock the huge potential contained in northern Alberta's tarsands deposits. A plan, which came close to receiving government sanction, was devised to detonate an atomic device underground to melt the bitumen. Today, public reaction would not permit any revival of such a plan, but a less explosive, modern-day solution is being considered. Atomic Energy of Canada Ltd (AECL) is promoting a new medium-sized nuclear reactor called the Advanced CANDU Reactor (ACR) for use in the oilsands industry. AECL recently commissioned a$35,000 study into the economics of atomic energy compared to natural gas to produce large amounts of steam that is needed to separate oil from the sand. Preliminary results suggest that nuclear power may be a viable option for oilsand extraction, requiring much less energy than the currently used steam assisted gravity drainage process (SAGD). In addition, nuclear power could solve the problem of projected greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Unlike natural gas-fired cogeneration facilities , nuclear energy does not emit GHGs. The Canadian Energy Research Institute (CERI) is examining the economics of nuclear energy for oilsand extraction. AECL claims the ACR-700 is competitive with the best-advanced gas-fired technology based on projections for 2010 and beyond. It will also move to light water from heavy water cooling by using slightly enriched uranium, thereby extending fuel life and reducing operating costs. Public perception, however, may be the biggest challenge. Opponents argue that storage and disposal of spent fuel rods still needs to be addressed. (author)