Ontario explores possibility of new, large-scale nuclear power plants [Video]

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https://gotopnews.com/post/1803508
Email this page to someone TORONTO — Ontario is exploring the possibility of building new, large-scale nuclear power plants to meet growing electricity demand and to phase out natural gas production. A report by the Independent Electric System Operator late last year revealed that the state could completely remove natural gas from its electricity system by 2050, starting with a moratorium in 2027, but this would require approximately $400 billion in capital expenditure and more production, including new generation. large-scale nuclear power plants. The report concluded that decarbonizing the grid in addition to new nuclear power would require conservation efforts, more renewable energy sources and energy storage. The IESO said work must begin now assess the reliability of new relatively untested technologies fuels to replace natural gas, install large, next-generation sources such as nuclear power plants hydroelectric plants. The state has not committed to a natural gas moratorium or phasing out or building new nuclear facilities, except for small modular reactor plans, but is now consulting on the possibility. A document recently submitted to government’s environmental registry seeks input on how best to involve the public Indigenous communities in planning and location of new production storage facilities. Energy Secretary Todd Smith said in an interview that building new nuclear power plants is “a path” to an all-electric system. “It’s definitely a possibility and that’s why we welcome feedback from Ontarians,” he said. “We’re evaluating all next steps.” Environmental groups such as Environmental Defense oppose continued reliance on natural gas alongside new nuclear structures. “IESO’s report markets continued use natural gas under the guise of a decarbonization plan, and takes acceleration gas production for granted… and continues to rely on gas-generated electricity through 2050, it’s embarrassingly late.” said Lana Goldberg, Environmental Defense’s Ontario climate program manager. “It’s ridiculous to build new nuclear when we have safe and much cheaper alternatives like wind and solar power.” The IESO said the flexibility afforded by natural gas is essential to keeping the system stable new and relatively untried technologies are discovered and new infrastructure is built, as well an electricity supply crisis looming. Ontario is facing electricity shortages due to decommissioning of one nuclear power plant, the refurbishment of others, growing demand, including vehicles, new electric vehicle battery production, arc furnaces for steel production, growth in greenhouse mining industries. The government consultation also asks whether an “additional investment” in clean energy should be made in short term to reduce reliance on natural gas “even if it will increase the cost to electricity system and taxpayers”. However, Smith noted that the government was not interested in the higher costs. “We will not compromise on reliability and affordability,” he said. “We must have a reliable and affordable system, otherwise we will not allow people to electrify.” The former Liberal government faced widespread anger over high hydro bills, often highlighted by Progressive Conservatives and driven by then-Opposition long-term contracts at above-market rates with clean electricity generators secured in part to promote a green energy transition. The current government consultation is open until 14 May.