Poland “keen” on working with Canada for first nuclear plant

"A moment ago, we signed an agreement that will provide some legal framework to intensify the cooperation both Canada and Poland are keen on, in the area of nuclear energy,” Polish prime minister Donald Tusk said on January 28 at a joint news conference with Canadian prime minister Justin Trudeau, reported the Polish Press Agency.

Trudeau shared his enthusiasm in a news release: “By working together to advance nuclear technology, Canada and Poland are pushing innovation forward and accelerating energy security. Once in force, the newly signed [agreement] will promote Canadian innovators, create good-paying jobs, and combine Polish and Canadian expertise in the sector. It’s a testament to Canada’s commitment to building a more secure future, alongside our closest allies.”

A closer look: Export Development Canada had issued a letter of intent in December to provide up to C$2 billion in financing in support of the sale of Canadian goods and services to Poland, the National Post reported.

Poland wants to pursue both large-scale and small modular plants and plans to start building its first nuclear reactor next year, with hopes of bringing the plant on line by 2033, according to the Globe and Mail.

Industry support: “Nuclear energy is a cornerstone of Canada’s commitment to global energy security,” George Christidis, interim president and chief executive of the Canadian Nuclear Association (CNA), said in a news release. "This agreement with Poland exemplifies how Canada can support our allies in building resilient, low-carbon energy systems while fostering economic growth and innovation."

The CNA also applauded the agreement for facilitating Canadian exports of nuclear technology, which will generate high-quality jobs in both countries and further investment in the nuclear industry.