As Canada ambitiously works towards its decarbonisation goals, aiming to achieve net-zero buildings by 2050, a recent collaborative study sheds light on a transformative solution: leveraging nuclear energy to decarbonise heating through thermal networks. This exploration, conducted by McMaster University’s Institute for Energy Studies, the Boltzmann Institute, and the Canadian Nuclear Association, underscores the strategic importance of nuclear energy in reducing the nation’s carbon footprint.
The Imperative for Thermal Networks
Heating buildings consume roughly the energy equivalent of Canada’s entire electricity generation. Traditional approaches to achieve net-zero buildings, such as electrifying heating systems and retrofitting millions of buildings, may not be feasible or affordable at the required scale (World Nuclear News). Thermal Networks (TNs), with their district energy systems that produce, store, and distribute heat via insulated water pipes, present a compelling alternative for up to 70% of the Canadian population, particularly in cold-climate countries where TNs already meet more than 50% of heating needs (McMaster Research).
Nuclear Energy: A Robust Solution
Nuclear power plants, considered among the most extensive clean Combined Heat and Power (CHP) generators, can address both electricity and heating demands. Canada’s strategy includes investing in new nuclear capacity, like the BWRX-300 small modular reactor envisaged for deployment at Ontario Power Generation’s (OPG) Darlington site (GE Hitachi Nuclear Energy). These reactors can be configured for CHP operations to feed thermal networks, potentially transporting heat over distances of 100 km or more. Small or micro modular reactors could be constructed as integral parts of TNs, with the potential to provide 25-50% of Canada’s total thermal network heat supply (Canadian Nuclear Association).
A Collaborative Strategy for Thermal Networks
The study advocates for a Thermal Network Strategy that fosters collaboration among Canadian governments to support investments in thermal network infrastructure. This initiative would recognise heat as a strategically important energy form and formally acknowledge thermal networks as part of Canada’s critical energy infrastructure (World Nuclear News).
Conclusion
As Canada joins other nations in a commitment to triple global nuclear power capacity by 2050, this study presents a timely and innovative approach to harnessing nuclear energy for a cleaner, more sustainable future. Integrating nuclear energy with thermal networks could revolutionise how Canadians heat their homes and buildings, marking a significant step forward in the nation’s journey to net-zero emissions.
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https://www.world-nuclear-news.org/Articles/Canadian-study-looks-at-nuclear-s-potential-to-dec
