Canadian nuclear groups sign deal to power up partnerships

The Canadian Association of Nuclear Host Communities (CANHC) and the Organization of Canadian Nuclear Industries (OCNI) have launched an innovative economic development partnership designed to bolster the nuclear energy community.

CANHC and OCNI signed their first-ever Memorandum of Understanding, with the two aligned groups agreeing to collaborate in several pivotal areas:

• Connecting OCNI Member Companies: This initiative will allow OCNI member companies to build relationships with local host community leaders, enhancing mutual understanding and cooperation.
• Facilitating Economic Development Connections: Community economic development managers will have the chance to connect with nuclear suppliers who want to establish offices in nuclear host communities, promoting local growth and development.
• Event Co-Hosting: Up to two annual events will be hosted in these communities, educating residents on the benefits of hosting nuclear power plants and providing local businesses with insights on the advantages of OCNI membership in securing nuclear industry contracts.
• Ready4SMR Program: Host community economic development managers will gain access to OCNI’s ‘Ready4SMR’ program, which assists local companies in becoming nuclear qualified.
• Exploring Mutual Benefits: CANHC and OCNI will continuously identify additional opportunities that can offer mutual benefits to both organizations and their stakeholders.

Clarington Mayor Adrian Foster

“We’re thrilled to celebrate this breakthrough agreement between CANHC and OCNI,” said Clarington Mayor Adrian Foister, who chairs the CANHC. “This partnership is about looking to the future and embracing a dynamic approach to economic development in the nuclear energy sector. It’s set to drive sustainable growth, boost community involvement, and forge stronger ties between the industry and our host communities.”

Brian Fehrenbach, VP, Growth and Strategy for OCNI, said both organizations have “long supported” greater collaboration in the development of “safe, long-term operations” of nuclear facilities in Canada.

“This MOU describes that cooperation and how we can collaborate even more on providing value and support to companies and the broader public around Canada’s nuclear communities.”

The Canadian Association of Nuclear Host Communities is a not-for-profit association that supports current, future, and interested nuclear host communities, champions their best interests and fosters an ongoing proactive relationship with the Canadian nuclear industry and regulator.

The Organization of Canadian Nuclear Industries is the leading voice of the Canadian nuclear supply chain, representing more than 250 leading suppliers of the nuclear industry in Canada and the international marketplace.