New Brunswick University Launches Nuclear Lab to Boost Workforce

A new nuclear research laboratory at the University of New Brunswick (UNB) aims to address the province’s growing demand for nuclear energy and workforce development. According to William Cook, director of the Centre for Nuclear Energy Research, the establishment of a comprehensive nuclear engineering degree program is essential for preparing new professionals in this expanding sector.

The Advanced Nuclear Reactors Laboratory, which began operations last month, has been in development for eight years on UNB’s Fredericton campus. This facility is equipped with cutting-edge technology that allows graduate students and researchers to study material interactions within environments that replicate nuclear reactor conditions. Cook emphasized the importance of this research in understanding degradation mechanisms, particularly corrosion, which can lead to system failures over time.

New Brunswick’s electricity demand is projected to double in the coming decades, necessitating an increase in nuclear power generation and a new generation of skilled workers. Currently, UNB offers about eight to ten nuclear engineering courses, but Cook advocates for a full-fledged program to better meet future workforce needs.

The province is one of only two in Canada—alongside Ontario—to operate nuclear reactors. As the average age of nuclear workers in Canada is now around 55, there is an urgent need to attract younger professionals to the field. Cook highlighted the existing partnerships between UNB and local nuclear industry stakeholders, including those at the Point Lepreau Nuclear Generating Station, as a foundation for expanding educational opportunities.

Government Support and Industry Collaboration

The provincial government has shown significant interest in nuclear energy projects, which may include the construction of a second power plant at Point Lepreau. Investments from both provincial and federal governments have also been directed toward two New Brunswick companies developing small modular reactors (SMRs), with plans to have these operational by 2030. Notably, Moltex Energy Canada is facing challenges that may delay its progress.

In discussions about the future of nuclear energy in New Brunswick, Michelle Robichaud, executive director of the Atlantic Centre for Energy, expressed her support for a full nuclear engineering program. She noted that a focus on nuclear energy could yield benefits across various sectors, including cybersecurity and green manufacturing.

Premier Susan Holt is leading efforts to integrate the expertise available at UNB into broader provincial energy strategies, positioning New Brunswick as a key player in Canada’s energy landscape. “The capabilities now that we have with the new and existing labs allow us to support all sorts of different reactor technologies,” Cook said, emphasizing the laboratory’s role in nation-building projects.

Criticism and Challenges Ahead

Despite the momentum for nuclear expansion, there are critics. David Coon, leader of the province’s Green Party, has voiced concerns regarding the emphasis on nuclear energy, suggesting that universities should pursue a broader spectrum of research without being tied to industry interests. He questioned whether the connections between academic institutions and the nuclear sector are beneficial.

In response, Cook defended the collaboration, asserting that university researchers are often world-leading experts whose insights are invaluable to both government and industry. He explained that while educational mandates include classroom teaching, research initiatives provide students with essential training and opportunities for consulting.

A significant challenge for the nuclear industry is the management of spent nuclear fuel, which requires secure storage for many decades. Cook pointed out that advancements in nuclear technology could potentially reduce the storage time for spent fuel by utilizing its energy content.

As New Brunswick navigates its energy future, the establishment of a comprehensive nuclear engineering program at UNB could play a crucial role in ensuring that the province is prepared to meet the challenges and demands of an evolving energy sector.