Ontario Pioneers Small Modular Nuclear Plants

Small modular nuclear reactors (SMRs) could play an important
role in meeting future energy needs. 


In this episode of Grid Talk, host Marty Rosenberg talks with
Sandra Dykxhoorn, the vice president of New Nuclear Growth at
Ontario Power Generation (OPG), based in Toronto.


“It’s a game-changer,” said Dykxhoorn about SMRs. “We are really
at the front of the pack here. OPG is recognized now globally as
a world leader in its small modular deployment.”


SMRs will make their international debut in the free world in
Ontario, Canada in five years.


“The reason why small modular reactors exist at all and why
people are investing in this technology is because we know there
is a need for smaller, clean base load power options that can
replace gas and coal,” Dykxhoorn said. 


“Part of the solution with the small modular reactor is that it’s
smaller so that should be quicker to build; doesn’t take as
long,” she told Grid Talk. “Additionally, it’s more modular and
more standardized. What we try to do is introduce factory
buildout components.”


It will be safer than conventional nuclear plants around for
decades. 


“Essentially what they’re trying to do is remove the humans that
need to be involved in managing a nuclear reactor in the event
that there’s an emergency or something happens. Ultimately,
there’s something called passive safety.”


As the Vice President of New Nuclear Development for Ontario
Power Generation, Sandra Dykxhoorn oversees the company’s
long-term new nuclear growth strategy, building external
relationships and creating a pipeline of opportunities. She has
been with OPG since 2016
 
 She graduated with a Bachelor of Commerce from the
University of Carleton and is a proud alumnus of the Laurentian
Leadership Program in Ottawa and the Institut d’Etudes Politiques
(IEP) in Grenoble France.