Alderville Chief Taynar Simpson of Alderville First Nation discusses a historic partnership with Ontario Power Generation (OPG) and seven other Williams Treaty First Nations to build a small modular nuclear reactor as part of the Darlington New Nuclear Project in this special episode of Conversations Towards Reconciliation.
The agreement marks the first time Indigenous people have held a large stake in nuclear development worldwide, with Alderville contributing $100 million alongside other First Nations for a 20 percent ownership stake in the $22 billion project.
Simpson explains that the decision was made after extensive community consultation, including a unanimous vote in support of the partnership, and emphasized that the investment would provide immediate benefits through job creation and training opportunities while addressing Ontario’s need for clean energy.
The discussion also covered environmental concerns about nuclear waste and uranium sourcing, with Simpson noting that being at the table would allow First Nations to advocate for stronger environmental protections.
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