A Review on Small Modular Reactors for Energy Transition in Northern Canada: Some Geotechnical Considerations in the Context of Climate Change

Remote northern communities in Canada face energy challenges due to their reliance on fossil fuels. Small modular reactors (SMRs) show promise as a sustainable solution to this issue, as they can reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote sustainable development. However, SMRs require specific structural and geotechnical design paradigms for implementation and operation in permafrost regions, which are adversely affected by climate change and permafrost degradation. This study presents the potential of SMRs for sustainable energy production in the northern context. We provide an overview of SMRs and highligh their position in Canada’s energy transition in northern regions. Additionally, we discuss the challenges associated with designing and implementing SMRs in northern regions. Our study contributes to the growing body of literature on SMRs in permafrost regions and highlights the need for further research and policy development to support their adoption.