Majority in Saskatchewan city wants to investigate having nuclear power plant

Citizens of Prince Albert in Saskatchewan have been polled to find out if they would support a nuclear power plant within a 50-kilometre radius of the city. Last year Bruce Power identified the city of 50,000 people as a potential site for such a plant.

The result of the poll of 635 residents in the city and surrounding rural areas found that 75% per cent knew that Bruce Power was considering such a plant in their area. Asked if they thought the city should be investigating the potential Bruce Power plant, 71% said yes.

Interestingly males and those aged 18 to 44 answered yes to this question most frequently. Females and people older than 44 years of age answered yes less often at 66-67%.

Asked if they considered nuclear power as “green” energy, however, the vote was almost evenly split at 37% and 38%, with 24% being undecided.

The main benefit perceived by those supporting the facility was that it would benefit the economy.

The city is considering locating such a plant close to the Saskatchewan River since it would be a source of cooling water. It has targeted the rural communities of Meath Park, Paddockwood and Smeaton as possible sites.

Bruce Power also recently announced that it had selected a site in Alberta for a potential nuclear plant. They have selected a site at Whitemud, approximately 30 kilometres north of Peace River.  The utility is preparing environmental and other studies for the plant while they await the report of an expert panel appointed by the provincial government which is looking at the rolenuclear energy might play in Alberta.

Golder Associates has been helping Bruce Power with its environmental studies for the plant.