The two companies said they had signed an agreement that supports efforts by policymakers both locally and nationally to study applications for nuclear technology to help reach their goal of a net-zero economy for Canada by 2050.
The eVinci microreactor is a next-generation, small battery for decentralised generation markets and micro grids such as remote communities, remote industrial mines and critical infrastructure. It is designed to provide power with minimal maintenance while its small size allows for standard transportation methods and rapid, onsite deployment.
According to Westinghouse, the eVinci is designed to operate for many years, eliminating the need for frequent refuelling. Passive safety features allow the reactor to operate and achieve safe shutdown without the need for additional controls, external power source or operator intervention, enabling highly autonomous operation.
Over the next year, the work between the two companies will focus on furthering the public policy and regulatory framework; assessing the economic, social and environmental contribution of the eVinci technology; identifying potential industrial applications; and accelerating efforts for Canada to host a demonstration plant as part of its federal small modular reactor action plan.