The eVinci microreactor being developed by US company Westinghiouse can provide clean and cost-competitive energy to off-grid markets in Canada while being up to 44% more economic than a diesel generator – presenting a significant opportunity to power the country’s remote communities with clean energy.

In a study produced with Canadian utility and nuclear operator Bruce Power, Westinghouse says a single eVinci microreactor is expected to be between 14% and 44% more economic than a diesel generator, depending upon the price of diesel fuel and the price for carbon.

Remote communities use large amounts of diesel fuel, which is costly and produces a significant amount of greenhouse gas emissions compared to other technologies. “That’s what makes these remote locations a prime target for more cost-effective and clean nuclear energy,” the study says.