Innovation project: Canadian Uranium Energy Bridge

The Brilliant Energy Institute recently combined its nuclear research talent with the design expertise of George Brown College's Brookfield Sustainability Institute to explore new, sustainable energy solutions in the nuclear sector.

Students and researchers from both institutions collaborated with energy industry professionals to answer a key question: Can we make nuclear energy simpler, smaller and more affordable?

The team identified key markets for sub-megawatt electricity consumption, including small remote communities, as well as remote mining, telecommunications, and off-grid data centres. In these applications, energy demand is lower, but reliability and fuel longevity are still essential. In addition, a clean, efficient alternative like nuclear power would reduce overall demand for fossil fuels in these markets, and lead to cost savings.

The team then designed and built a concept nano reactor called the Canadian Uranium Energy Bridge (CUEB): a turnkey energy service untethered from the electrical grid. Measuring only two metres cubed (approximately 70 cubic feet), the subcritical nuclear generator is capable of producing 100 to 300 kW, as well as co-generated heat for cold climates. The CUEB is modular, scalable, and can be redeployed at a fraction of the cost of existing energy solutions, all with zero operating emissions.

How to get involved

Ontario Tech invites collaborations with other organizations that could contribute to this project. Want to learn more about opportunities to get involved? Contact us at brilliantenergy@ontariotechu.ca.