Gov’t Signs MOU to Advance Nuclear Technologies Adoption in Jamaica

• The Government of Jamaica (GOJ), on Tuesday (October 22), signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Atomic Energy of Canada Limited and Canadian Nuclear Laboratories Limited to advance 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.
• Currently, 85% of Jamaica’s energy is derived from fossil fuels, which the Prime Minister describes as, “a dependency that leaves us vulnerable to external shocks and global oil and natural gas price fluctuations”.
• He highlighted that France generates approximately 68% of its electricity from nuclear power, adding that this source accounts for 15% of Canada’s energy output.
• The Prime Minister noted that small modular nuclear reactors offer enhanced safety features, reduced environmental impact and a cost-effective solution for small countries like Jamaica and that taking advantage of the technology, which is rapidly developing, will provide long-term benefits for Jamaica over time.
• Regarding safety, Dr. Holness stated that technology has advanced over the years, noting that modern nuclear reactors are designed with fail-safe mechanisms that significantly reduce the risk of accidents.

(Source: JIS)