Peninfo Desk: Jamaica government signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for the advancement of nuclear technologies adoption on Tuesday (October 22).
The agreement was signed with Canadian Nuclear Laboratories Limited and Atomic Energy of Canada Limited for the advancement of nuclear technologies adoption in Jamaica.
Addressing the signing ceremony at Jamaica House, Prime Minister, Dr. the Most Hon. Andrew Holness, said the partnership reflects the Government’s unwavering commitment to diversify the country’s energy portfolio with new, clean and sustainable alternatives.
“It marks a pivotal moment in Jamaica’s energy transformation as we take a bold and forward-thinking step by signing this Memorandum of Understanding. This move is about reducing your cost of living, a major part of it being the cost of energy,” he stated.
Dr. Holness informed that countries such as Canada and France are using nuclear power as a potential solution to energy issues and climate change in a safe and effective manner.
He pointed out that France generates approximately 68 per cent of its electricity from nuclear power, adding that this source accounts for 15 per cent of Canada’s energy output.
The Prime Minister added that Canada is also known for maintaining uncompromising nuclear standards.
“These examples show that with proper regulation of the technology and the embrace of technological advancement, nuclear can be a game changer. In fact, today’s nuclear technology, especially small modular reactors, is far safer and more adaptable than it was in the past,” he indicated.
Dr. Holness noted that small modular nuclear reactors offer enhanced safety features, reduced environmental impact and a cost-effective solution for small countries like Jamaica.
Regarding safety, Dr. Holness pointed out that the technology has advanced over the years, noting that modern nuclear reactors are designed with fail-safe mechanisms that significantly reduce the risk of accidents.
“We know that safety is at the forefront of everyone’s minds when it comes to nuclear energy, and rightly so. But I want to emphasis that nuclear energy today is not what it was even a decade ago. For modern nuclear reactors, particularly small modular nuclear, we know that some of the designs shut down automatically,” he stated.
Dr. Holness said that as part of the exploration, work will be undertaken with global experts to ensure that every aspect of nuclear energy, particularly waste management, is handled with the highest international standards.
“Countries like Finland and Sweden have developed world-class systems for safety in terms of storing nuclear waste, and we will draw on their experience to ensure that Jamaica follows the best practices for protecting the environment and our people,” he stated.
The Prime Minister pointed out that Jamaica’s journey with nuclear technology began in 1984 with the establishment of the Caribbean’s first and only nuclear reactor at the University of the West Indies (UWI), Mona, with European Union (EU) support.
Dr. Holness said the facility is operated by the International Centre for Environmental and Nuclear Science (ICENS) and has been a beacon of nuclear research for four decades, advancing studies in agriculture, health and environmental protection.
Meanwhile, the Prime Minister advised that the Government is taking a comprehensive approach to diversifying Jamaica’s energy security.
Meanwhile, Minister of Science, Energy Telecommunications and Transport, Hon. Daryl Vaz, said a key aspect of the agreement is the exchange of scientists, engineers and other specialists.
“This collaboration will foster the sharing of knowledge, skills and best practices, driving innovation in research, development and practical applications. Together we will build out a network of expertise that will benefit both Jamaica and Canada. Through organised seminars and meetings, we will ensure that our professionals remain at the forefront of nuclear technology and its peaceful applications,” he said.
Canadian Nuclear Laboratories Limited Board Director, Howard Shearer, said the discussions initiated with Dr. Holness last year aim to diversify, among other things, Jamaica’s energy mix.
President and Chief Executive Officer for Atomic Energy of Canada Limited, Fred Dermarker, said the partnership will advance ongoing discussions on nuclear science and related technologies.
“This event (MOU signing) is a testament of the strong and enduring relationship between our nations,” he pointed out. (Source: Jamaica Information Service)
Peninfo Desk/27.10.24/12:10am