Cameco CEO Calls for Neutrality in Canada's Nuclear Strategy Amid Rising Clean Energy Demand

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Cameco's CEO urges the Canadian government to maintain a neutral stance in its nuclear strategy to boost the country's clean energy reputation and competitiveness.

OTTAWA — In a recent appearance before a House of Commons committee, Tim Gitzel, the CEO of Cameco, emphasized the need for the Canadian government to adopt an impartial approach as it implements its nuclear strategy amid increasing demand for clean energy. Gitzel stated that Ottawa must remain 'technology neutral' to enhance Canada's standing in the global market. He pointed out that while competitors from other nations receive robust support from their governments, Canadian firms do not enjoy the same advantage.
In June, Canada unveiled a comprehensive nuclear strategy aimed at doubling uranium exports and constructing up to 10 new nuclear reactors within the next 15 years. This strategy also includes plans to increase foreign sales of Candu reactors, which are produced by Canadian firm AtkinsRéalis, previously known as SNC-Lavalin. Prime Minister Mark Carney noted earlier this month that AtkinsRéalis has a significant opportunity to secure a lucrative contract to supply nuclear energy to Turkey, a possibility that seemed unlikely just a year ago.
Gitzel, whose company is a competitor to AtkinsRéalis, urged the federal government not to show favoritism towards any particular technology, advocating instead for the support of all Canadian nuclear firms and their respective technologies. He expressed that Canada has the potential to emerge as a 'global nuclear superstar,' but cautioned that this ambition could be jeopardized if the diversification of technologies is restricted.
Furthermore, Gitzel criticized the federal government for allegedly promoting technologies that compete against Cameco's offerings in markets such as Poland, where the company is currently involved in the construction of nuclear reactors. He conveyed his concerns to the committee, stating, 'It seems unfair to me that Canadian champions have to compete with their own government to be successful.'
Gitzel underscored the critical role that Cameco plays in the nuclear fuel supply chain in Canada, asserting that the company is essential for the generation of nuclear power both domestically and internationally. He declared, 'Cameco is the nuclear fuel supply chain in Canada, and the reason Canada has a seat at the global nuclear fuel table.'
In response to Gitzel's remarks, a spokesperson for Tim Hodgson, the minister of energy and natural resources, clarified that the federal government has not endorsed any specific technology over others. Press secretary Charlotte Power stated, 'Decisions about electricity generation fall within provincial and territorial jurisdiction, and provinces and our international partners are best placed to determine the technologies that meet their needs.'

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