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Dalhousie University’s Faculty of Engineering is leading the development of next-generation artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support the next wave of nuclear energy systems, including Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), an emerging technology being explored as part of Canada’s clean energy future.

Led by Issam Hammad in the Department of Engineering Mathematics and Internetworking, the project has received $125,000 over two years through Phase II of the NSERC–CNSC SMR grant initiative to develop AI systems that support nuclear professionals in decision-making. Hammad says a key goal is to develop AI that people can understand and trust, with systems that clearly show how decisions are made and can be closely monitored in high-stakes environments.

The proposed research will generate new knowledge in the emerging area of AI integration into future SMRs and current CANDU plants, specifically addressing cybersecurity, human controllability, and regulatory alignment. The project will provide the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) with evidence-based tools, frameworks, and case studies to support regulatory decision-making.

The SMR Shift

Small modular reactors (SMRs) are advanced nuclear reactors that have a power capacity of up to 300 MW(e) per unit, which is about one-third of the generating capacity of traditional nuclear power reactors. They offer a promising pathway to support Canada’s low carbon energy transition and are expected to be less complex, easier to operate and more cost effective than current nuclear technology.

Across the country, momentum is growing for the development of SMRs. Recently, Ontario and Nova Scotia signed a Memorandum of Understanding to share knowledge and expertise on SMR technology as they explore advanced nuclear to support long-term clean energy and energy security goals.

The collaboration between provinces like Ontario and Nova Scotia on SMR technology is essential for building a unified clean, and sovereign energy future for Canada. “Our research ensures that as this technology evolves, the AI systems governing these reactors are built on a foundation of high human controllability and rigorous cybersecurity making the technology both scalable and inherently safe, no matter where it is deployed,” says Hammad.

Hammad’s recent grant builds on earlier Phase I work supported through the NSERC–CNSC Alliance program in 2023, which helped establish early frameworks for integrating AI and Cyber-aligned solutions into nuclear systems. The earlier phase explored how to adapt and regulate emerging AI and Cyber technologies for future remotely operated SMRs and current CANDU plants.

Designed for Safety and Control

Hammad says the new phase will expand on that work by focusing on “human-centric AI” systems. These tools are being designed to augment the capabilities of operators and engineers, providing them with deeper insights for daily tasks.

“These systems are being developed to explain their reasoning, flag uncertainty, and remain fully auditable to meet Canadian nuclear safety expectations,” says Hammad.

He adds that a key component of the project is cybersecurity and digital sovereignty. The research will explore how AI systems for SMRs can be deployed within Canadian-controlled infrastructure to reduce reliance on external platforms and protect sensitive nuclear data and intellectual property.

“As we integrate AI into the core of our energy infrastructure, our priority is to ensure that every digital layer is fortified against intrusion. Cybersecurity isn't just a technical requirement; it's the foundation of public trust and national safety in the nuclear sector,” says Hammad.

He adds that as SMRs gain traction across the country, this work will lay the foundation for a future where advanced energy systems are not only more efficient, but safe, secure, and built for Canadians.