July 7, 2025
Energy Alberta recognizes the importance of engaging early and often to understand the unique interests of communities. We are committed to engaging thoughtfully and responsibly with local communities and Indigenous Nations who have an interest in our Project.
As part of that commitment, in June, the Energy Alberta team attended five meetings with six local government councils to provide an update on the Peace River Nuclear Power Project, answer questions and address concerns brought forward by local government leaders.
We met face-to-face with councils from Peace River, Northern Sunrise County, the MD of Peace, the Town of Grimshaw, the Town of Manning and the County of Northern Lights. The conversations were honest, curious and rooted in a shared desire to better understand the steps ahead for the Project and how local governments and communities will be involved.
Important Conversations; Unique Perspectives
The Energy Alberta team provided information about where the Project is in the regulatory process, how we are approaching site selection and what our engagement timeline looks like – not just this year, but all the way through construction and operations.
In addition to talking about Canada’s nuclear safety framework, we also shared what makes CANDU® MONARK™ reactors unique, how we are planning for cooling and water use and what kinds of opportunities – from workforce training to isotope production – communities might expect.
Across every meeting, local councils brought forward thoughtful, honest and diverse questions – each reflecting the unique priorities and perspectives of their communities. These conversations are central to how we engage: open, respectful and focused on learning together.
In Peace River, we discussed the number of cooling ponds, the facility’s footprint and how decommissioning is planned well in advance. In Northern Sunrise County, the conversations focused on water use, future energy outputs, and how Energy Alberta is approaching public engagement and perception. Councillors also raised important questions about hydrogen, medical isotopes and what the long-term benefits could be.
At the MD of Peace, topics included emergency preparedness, how public feedback will be used and what tools are available to help community members participate meaningfully in the regulatory process.
Our joint meeting with the Town of Manning and County of Northern Lights explored infrastructure planning, funding transparency and how we are learning from past energy projects. In Grimshaw, questions focused on uranium sourcing, advanced reactor approvals and opportunities for ongoing community dialogue.
Staying Connected
We left each council chamber with more than notes – we left with new insights, new relationships and clear reminders of the responsibility that comes with early-stage engagement. As one councillor noted, “It makes a difference to hear this directly from Energy Alberta.”
We are committed to continuing these conversations. That means returning for regular updates, showing up at community events and creating space for questions. To view the information we presented during our visits, click on the link below:
You can also follow us on social media or join our mailing list for future updates on the Project!
You can also visit the IAAC - Peace River Nuclear Power Project page for additional resources.
