Pabineau First Nation Partners with Westinghouse for Clean Energy Innovation
Photo caption: Westinghouse has signed an MoU with the Pabineau and Eel River Bar First Nations to promote nuclear new build projects at the Port of Belledune (from left): Councilor Karen Narvie, Eel River Bar; John Gorman, President of Westinghouse Canada; and Chief Terry Richardson, Pabineau
Photo Source: https://info.westinghousenuclear.com/news/westinghouse-partners-with-pabineau-and-eel-river-bar-first-nations
Pabineau and Eel River Bar First Nations Partner with Westinghouse to Advance Nuclear Energy in New Brunswick
Bathurst, New Brunswick, May 21, 2025 – Pabineau First Nation and Eel River Bar First Nation have signed a groundbreaking memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Westinghouse Electric Company, marking a major step forward in clean energy innovation at the Port of Belledune. This collaboration seeks to explore the development and deployment of Westinghouse’s AP300™ Small Modular Reactor (SMR) and the company’s Long Duration Energy Storage technology, helping pave the way for the future of clean energy in New Brunswick.
A Game-Changing Partnership for Clean Energy
The focus of the agreement is to explore the potential for the AP300™ SMR, a highly advanced nuclear reactor, in the region. The AP300 is based on the proven AP1000® reactor, already operating globally, and promises to bring clean, reliable energy to New Brunswick, while also creating jobs and economic growth. As part of the partnership, Pabineau First Nation and Eel River Bar First Nation will work closely with New Brunswick Power, the Belledune Port Authority, and industrial customers to bring this innovative technology to life.
Both Pabineau First Nation and Eel River Bar First Nation are proud to be part of this forward-looking partnership. Chief Terry Richardson of Pabineau First Nation emphasized that this agreement represents a chance to boost the provincial economy, benefiting not only Indigenous communities but the entire region. "We believe partnership is the key to success," said Chief Richardson. "The Port of Belledune offers a great opportunity with land and a deep-water port that gives access to world markets. We look forward to continuing to develop our relationship with Westinghouse."
Economic and Environmental Benefits for Future Generations
For Eel River Bar First Nation, Chief Jake Caplin highlighted the long-term benefits of this collaboration. “This agreement represents a forward-looking partnership that puts our community, alongside our friends at Pabineau First Nation, at the center of meaningful economic and environmental progress,” said Chief Caplin. “We’re proud to be part of clean energy innovation in our territory that will benefit our community members for generations to come.”
A Vision for the Future of Nuclear Energy in New Brunswick
The AP300™ SMR offers a safer and more efficient solution for clean energy generation. With a streamlined licensing process and tried-and-tested engineering, the AP300™ aims to be the first operational unit of its kind in the early 2030s. The reactor’s small modular design is built on the same technology as the AP1000, ensuring reliability while reducing risks.
John Gorman, President of Westinghouse Canada, noted that this collaboration is part of Westinghouse’s broader strategy to bring clean energy solutions to the region, stating, “Indigenous communities are important partners to Westinghouse as we develop infrastructure projects and new build opportunities in New Brunswick. We are pleased to work with Pabineau and Eel River Bar First Nations to explore the deployment of the AP300™ SMR.”
A Step Toward Economic Growth and Environmental Stewardship
As Indigenous rightsholders at the Port of Belledune, both Pabineau and Eel River Bar are actively involved in regional economic development. This partnership with Westinghouse is an opportunity to advance clean energy while respecting the land and cultural traditions. The project will create jobs, stimulate economic growth, and contribute to environmental stewardship, all of which are critical components of Pabineau First Nation’s vision for a sustainable future.
Looking Ahead
The partnership between Westinghouse, Pabineau First Nation, and Eel River Bar First Nation represents a significant step toward sustainable energy and economic development for the region. With the AP300™ SMR set to play a key role in New Brunswick’s clean energy future, the collaboration highlights the strength of working together to create lasting, positive change for Indigenous communities and beyond.