SMR for Arctic Sustainable Development: mining in remote applications (OECD Nuclear Energy Agency)

The Arctic region faces unique socio-economic challenges, with many remote communities reliant on diesel for energy due to limited accessibility and high transportation costs. As Arctic states explore sustainable development options, there is a growing interest in renewable and low-carbon energy solutions, including nuclear power, to help achieve net-zero emissions. The global demand for Arctic-mined resources, critical to the green transition, highlights the importance of developing clean energy solutions tailored to the region's needs.

Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) offer a promising solution to these challenges, especially for hard-to-decarbonize sectors like mining. With a variety of technologies, sizes, and power outputs, SMRs can provide reliable, low-carbon energy to remote mining operations, reducing dependence on diesel and aligning with the COP28 commitments to triple renewable and nuclear energy production by 2030 and 2050. As global demand for minerals rises, SMRs could support mining operations in off-grid locations, lowering their carbon footprint while meeting production needs.

This event will draw from the NEA’s report, "SMRs for Mining: Opportunities and Challenges for Small Modular Reactors," and foster discussions among industry stakeholders to explore deployment pathways for SMRs in Arctic mining.
In conclusion, this event will explore how nuclear energy can contribute to sustainable development pathways in the Arctic, with a particular focus on reducing the carbon footprint associated with the rising global demand for mining in the region. By examining the potential of SMRs to support clean, reliable energy for remote mining operations, participants will gain insights into how nuclear technology can play a pivotal role in the Arctic’s sustainable future.

Moderator:

• Diane Cameron, Head of Nuclear Technology Development and Economics, OECD NEA

Speakers:

• Landon Derentz, Senior Director of the Global Energy Center, Atlantic Council
• Henri Paillere, Head of the Planning and Economic Studies Section, IAEA
• US Department of Defense’s Arctic and Global Resilience Office (invited)
• Canada Young Indigenous Representative (invited)

Online participants:

• Peter Lang
• Madeleine Redfern