The ARC-100 is a 100 megawatt-electric (MWe) sodium-cooled fast neutron reactor designed to deliver both on-grid electricity and industrial heat. This marks the first time a sodium-cooled fast reactor has completed this type of regulatory review with the CNSC, a milestone that strengthens Canada’s global standing in nuclear innovation.
“This significant milestone reflects ARC’s dedication and commitment to meeting Canada’s rigorous nuclear regulatory standards,” said Robert Braun, Chief Operating Officer of ARC Clean Technology, in July 2025. “The successful completion of this review by the CNSC gives global credibility to our technology and sets us apart as a leader among advanced SMR technologies.”
The CNSC’s Vendor Design Review process, which began in 2022, is not a licensing process but provides valuable feedback to vendors regarding how their designs align with Canadian regulatory expectations. ARC submitted hundreds of technical documents across 19 focus areas, including:
This completion paves the way for ARC’s demonstration plans and future license applications.
The successful conclusion of the VDR comes as ARC and NB Power move forward on a proposed demonstration project at the Point Lepreau Nuclear Generating Station in New Brunswick. In 2023, NB Power submitted a license to prepare site application—one of only two SMR projects currently under active review by the CNSC.
“We’ve been pleased to provide technical support throughout this process,” said Lori Clark, President and CEO of NB Power. “This is a meaningful step in ARC’s project development, and we look forward to continued collaboration in exploring innovative energy solutions.”
The ARC-100 could be deployed commercially later this decade, depending on licensing progress and demonstration outcomes. Its ability to provide carbon-free baseload power and process heat makes it attractive to heavy industries and utilities facing decarbonization mandates.
ARC’s milestone comes as several companies—including X-energy, GE Hitachi, and Terrestrial Energy—compete for leadership in the next generation of nuclear reactors. While U.S.-based competitors are advancing designs through the Department of Energy’s Advanced Reactor Demonstration Program, ARC is unique in its sodium-cooled fast neutron design and its progress in Canadian regulatory processes.
The company also participates in the U.S. ARDP program and operates offices in both Saint John, New Brunswick and Washington, DC.
As Canada targets net-zero emissions by 2050, advanced SMRs like the ARC-100 could play a central role. The country’s 2023 federal SMR Action Plan identified small reactors as critical to decarbonizing remote communities, heavy industry, and non-electrified sectors. According to Natural Resources Canada, the domestic SMR market could reach C$5.3 billion annually by 2040, with export opportunities far exceeding that.
