BY SHONDELL SABAD, SENIOR STRATEGIC ADVISOR AT THE ALBERTA ENTERPRISE GROUP

When it comes to the future of clean energy, nuclear deserves a second look – and thanks to companies like Aalo Atomics and Antares it’s getting one.  Aalo, a U.S.-based startup, is reimagining nuclear power with small, modular reactors designed for safety, scalability, and commercial viability.  Their approach uses existing supply chains and proven fuel types, making deployment more practical and cost-effective than ever before. 

Antares is taking a similarly bold approach, developing kilowatt-scale reactors compact enough to fit in shipping containers – designed for rapid deployment, remote applications, and minimal infrastructure requirements. 

While AEG doesn’t typically highlight individual companies, the innovation happening in the nuclear sector is too important to overlook.  It’s a reminder that major breakthroughs don’t just come from industry giants – they can come from entrepreneurs willing to think differently.

Nuclear is one of the safest, cheapest and cleanest sources of power available today, with an exceptionally low carbon footprint and track record of safety.  The data backs this up, for more on this read the blog from Our World in Data here What are the safest and cleanest sources of energy? – Our World in Data

Alberta, with its engineering expertise, strong regulatory framework, and need for clean, reliable baseload power, is positioned to lead in next-generation nuclear.  With the right policy support and public-private collaboration, there’s no reason we couldn’t see this kind of innovation right here in our own backyard.  Importantly, these modular nuclear solutions could also serve as a powerful foundation for Alberta to attract energy-intensive industries like data centres and indoor vertical farms – offering a stable, low-emission power source that aligns with global ESG expectations. Clean energy leadership and digital infrastructure growth can – and should – go hand in hand.