SMR Energy Security and Resilience: The Arctic
In the face of evolving global threats and the growing urgency of energy security and resilience, the need for innovative approaches to critical infrastructure protection has never been greater. Let’s push the boundaries of risk assessment and engage with visionaries who think beyond traditional models to create future-ready solutions.
Breaking New Ground: Are SMRs Arctic-ready (Note – this a class exercise only)
As part of Carleton University’s Infrastructure Protection and International Security Program, IPIS 5105 Critical Infrastructure Risk Assessment course, students are undertaking a bold and ambitious project—installing Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) on Canadian military bases in the Arctic and conducting comprehensive Threat and Risk Assessments (TRAs).
Developed in collaboration with NC-CIPSeR, Natural Resources Canada (NRCan), Canadian Nuclear Labs, the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC), the Department of National Defence (DND)/Canadian Armed Forces (CAF), and industry experts, this exercise challenges students to apply cutting-edge risk methodologies to one of Canada’s most complex and high-stakes environments.
The Mission – SMR’s boost the ARCTIC
✔ Evaluate the security and regulatory framework for SMRs on Canadian Military bases, in extreme Arctic conditions.
✔ Assess geo-political threats, natural hazards and risks from cyber threats, environmental challenges, espionage, and sabotage.
✔ Determine how SMRs can enhance energy security and resilience for military operations, remote communities, and critical industries.
✔ Develop forward-thinking strategies for integrating nuclear energy into Canada’s defense and energy infrastructure while adding an economic boost to Arctic communities.
Why This Matters
The Arctic is at the heart of geopolitical competition, climate change challenges, and national security priorities. As Canada looks to fortify its presence in the North, the deployment of SMRs as a sustainable energy solution introduces both opportunities and risks.
✔ How do we secure these advanced nuclear systems in remote, high-threat environments?
✔ What role does AI and cyber resilience play in protecting nuclear assets?
✔ Can SMRs drive sustainable energy solutions for both defense and civilian applications?
✔ What lessons can policymakers, regulators, industry leaders, and security experts learn from this exercise?
These are the big questions that we hope will spark discussion, debate, and groundbreaking ideas.
Pushing the Boundaries: Who Will Lead?
Innovation in critical infrastructure doesn’t happen in silos. It requires visionaries and leaders willing to challenge conventional thinking and break through bureaucratic inertia. We are calling on leaders, researchers, engineers, and security professionals to engage with us, contribute ideas, and drive this conversation forward.
✔ Are you a security expert with insight into defending high-risk assets?
✔ Are you an energy specialist interested in the future of decentralized power?
✔ Are you an AI and cyber strategist focused on protecting critical infrastructure?
✔ Are you a policy innovator ready to shape Canada’s approach to regulation, risk and resilience?
This project is just the beginning—the insights gained here will help fuel conversations and raise better questions for our Energy Sector Task Force. We want to hear from you.
Join the Conversation
We believe that true innovation comes from collaboration. If you have ideas, expertise, or just a burning curiosity to explore what’s next, we invite you to connect, contribute, and challenge us.
Let’s build smarter, safer, and more resilient infrastructure—together.
What do you think?
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