Nuclear Energy Nuclear Energy

Against a backdrop of greater electrification and skyrocketing energy demand, Canada’s nuclear sector is entering a new era, marked by major refurbishment projects, the rise of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), advances in nuclear fuel and isotope production, and long-term solutions for nuclear waste management.

These opportunities are matched by complexity, including first-of-a-kind technological solutions, rigorous regulatory oversight, evolving stakeholder expectations, novel ways of contracting for high-risk/high-complexity projects and the need for significant capital investment.

Osler’s Chambers Canada Band 1 ranked Energy and Construction practices helps clients navigate this complexity and unlock the opportunities of a transforming industry. We combine deep sector knowledge with commercial and legal insight to guide clients through the entire lifecycle of nuclear projects, always with an eye to aligning legal strategy with business outcomes.

How Osler can help

• Track record in the nuclear sector: We have advised on the most significant projects in the Canadian nuclear industry, including major nuclear fleet refurbishments from each of the owner’s and the contractor’s perspectives, government financing of nuclear projects, development of major undertakings for the permanent management of nuclear waste as well as R&D and laboratories.
• Technical depth: Many of our lawyers hold both law and engineering degrees including in geology, civil, mechanical, and engineering science in the nuclear sector, bringing practical, on-the-ground insight to complex projects.
• Shaping strategy from the start: Whether structuring a joint venture, negotiating a collaborative contract, or financing a new build, we help clients set the foundation for long-term success.
• Clearing regulatory pathways: Our lawyers are trusted advisors on nuclear licensing, safety, and compliance. We represent clients before the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) and help ensure projects move forward with confidence.
• Building and protecting projects: From procurement and construction through operations and refurbishment, we provide practical guidance on contracts, risk allocation, and dispute avoidance, always with an emphasis on enabling progress.
• Supporting innovation and growth: We advise on the commercialization of isotope production, nuclear fuel supply chains, and research reactors, helping clients seize opportunities in emerging markets.
• Managing long-term responsibilities: Our work extends to nuclear liability, insurance, decommissioning, and waste management strategies, safeguarding clients’ investments and reputations for decades to come.

The Osler advantage

Our team brings more than technical legal expertise. We bring perspective. We understand how regulatory, commercial, and operational factors intersect in nuclear projects, and we know that success requires more than compliance. It requires foresight, collaboration, and trust.

Clients choose Osler because we work alongside them as true partners, anticipating challenges, designing creative solutions, and ensuring that their most ambitious nuclear initiatives achieve lasting impact.