Jamaica signs exploratory nuclear energy agreement
Jamaica has taken a significant step toward introducing nuclear power as part of its energy mix, signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Canadian Nuclear Laboratories (CNL) and Atomic Energy of Canada Limited (AECL).
The agreement sets the stage for potential development in nuclear energy, focusing initially on research, training, and technical assessments of nuclear technology suitable for Jamaica’s needs.
Prime Minister Andrew Holness described the MOU as a “pivotal moment” in Jamaica’s energy transformation, noting that this move is not merely symbolic. “This is about Jamaica exploring technology, embracing technology for its economic development,” Holness emphasised. He explained that the agreement will provide access to expertise and open opportunities for Jamaicans to study and train in nuclear energy with Canadian partners.
Holness acknowledged that Jamaica remains heavily reliant on fossil fuels, which supply 85% of its energy, exposing the country to global oil and gas price fluctuations. “By diversifying our energy mix and integrating nuclear power, my Administration is actively working to lower energy costs across the board, which will directly reduce the cost of goods and services,” said Holness, stressing the potential of nuclear energy to stabilise energy prices.
A major focus of the collaboration is exploring the potential of small modular reactors (SMRs), advanced nuclear reactors with a generating capacity of up to 300 MW per unit. Unlike traditional reactors, SMRs are compact, factory-built, and designed for easier installation, reducing both construction time and the risk of cost overruns. Holness expressed optimism about SMRs, pointing out that they offer enhanced safety features and a smaller environmental footprint, making them well-suited for Jamaica’s energy landscape.
The agreement also envisions broader applications for nuclear technology beyond electricity generation. Daryl Vaz, Jamaica’s Minister of Science, Energy, Telecommunications, and Transport, highlighted its potential use in fields like agriculture and environmental monitoring, which could support climate resilience. “This MOU represents a significant advancement in Jamaica’s pursuit of innovative and clean sustainable energy solutions focusing on nuclear research and development,” Vaz stated.
Jack Craig, CEO of Canadian Nuclear Laboratories, called the MOU an important first step toward a possible nuclear future in Jamaica as the parties move to ‘flesh out’ how Jamaica might incorporate nuclear energy. Craig underscored the partnership’s emphasis on training, adding that discussions at the University of the West Indies (UWI) were underway to explore potential student exchanges and internships, as well as knowledge-sharing sessions with Canadian universities.
Despite the potential benefits, Prime Minister Holness acknowledged concerns over nuclear safety, especially in light of past incidents like Fukushima in Japan and Chernobyl in Ukraine. “We understand the concerns many Jamaicans may have regarding safety, and I want to assure the country that we are approaching this with caution, care, and the utmost regard for the well-being of our people and environment,” Holness said, affirming that public safety and environmental protection will be top priorities.
CNL’s Howard Shearer noted that Jamaica’s seismic history would need to be taken into consideration when selecting a site for nuclear infrastructure, with public education also important. “You will never convert everybody, but you need to convert as many as you can to take you along to the point where [a power plant] can be built, and let people see the benefit,” he argued.
The MOU marks a significant milestone for Jamaica, which already hosts the Caribbean’s only nuclear reactor, a SLOWPOKE-2 research reactor installed at UWI’s Mona campus in 1984. With this agreement, the Jamaican government is now exploring the possibility of building a regulatory framework for a nuclear sector on the island, with support from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). Over the next five years, Jamaica aims to establish guidelines to regulate nuclear technology safely and responsibly.
Canadian officials assured that they would not be pushing any particular technology on Jamaica, focusing instead on providing technical advice and support. Fred Dermarker, President of AECL, emphasised Canada’s commitment to helping Jamaica evaluate and build its nuclear capabilities. “From mining uranium from the ground to the disposal at the very end of the process, Canada has capabilities that it can share with Jamaica,” he said, expressing confidence in the potential of this bilateral collaboration.
With Jamaica’s energy demands on the rise, the government is increasingly aware of the need to diversify its energy sources. Holness underscored the transformative potential of nuclear energy for Jamaica’s future, calling it a potential game changer for the country.
Source: Caribbean Insight