Water Supply Assessment for Siting Small Modular Reactors in Saskatchewan

Abstract

Decentralized electrical power generation by SMRs is under consideration in Saskatchewan. Using current technological specifications for SMRs that could suit SK requirements, as assessment of water resources and quantities available was undertaken. To complete this assessment, two tools were used to evaluate projected impacts of climate change and complete regional risk assessments by basin. Government of Canada climate models for simulating the change in surface air temperature and precipitation rate were selected for inclusion of climate projections to water availability assessments. The AQUEDUCT Water Risk Atlas, produced by World Resources Institute, was selected for overall water availability risk assessment. Finally, the results from the models were cross-referenced with existing research on water demand initiated by the Saskatchewan Water Security Agency to produce a risk map of water supplies potentially available to support an SMR. The risk map highlights at least four distinct regions with water supply suitable to support the range of requirements for SMR infrastructure.