Performing an inclusive site evaluation

The development of advanced small modular reactors (aSMRs) as part of the solution to climate change presents economic opportunities for both Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities in New Brunswick. New Brunswick Power (NB Power), the Province of New Brunswick, ARC Clean Technology (ARC), and Moltex Energy Canada (Moltex) are committed to ensuring all First Nation communities, particularly those whose traditional territories are proximal to the site, benefit from these opportunities, including employment and supply chain participation. Site characterization and evaluation, completed in support of the licensing process with the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC), is one avenue for Indigenous inclusion, partnerships, and capacity-building. This inclusion and collaboration with Indigenous communities and local supply chain were identified as key requirements early in the planning stages of the site evaluation process for aSMR development at the Point Lepreau site. Leading with this intention, NB Power has developed a contracting strategy and site evaluation process that prioritizes the procurement of local and Indigenous skilled resources to participate in various studies to support site characterization and meet current regulatory requirements. This paper will highlight the successes and challenges associated with this strategy and process to-date. (author)