Blog Post

As the world races toward cleaner energy solutions, nuclear power is enjoying a renaissance—a resurgence driven by its ability to deliver reliable, low-carbon electricity at scale. But nuclear energy policy shifts in Canada and the U.S. are introducing new uncertainties—especially around tariffs and political change. In North America, where both countries share a deeply interconnected energy landscape, this revival is poised to reshape the commercial nuclear sector. As a nuclear power advocate and policy observer, I’d like to unpack how these dynamics might play out—and invite your thoughts on where we go from here.

🌍 A Tale of Two Neighbors: Political Winds of Change 

In the United States, the political pendulum has swung toward a renewed focus on energy independence and industrial strength under President Donald Trump’s second term, which began in January 2025. Trump’s administration has shown strong support for nuclear energy. One example is the “Unleashing American Energy” order, which emphasizes uranium security and domestic production. This aligns with a broader push to bolster U.S. leadership in nuclear generation. China, meanwhile, may surpass the U.S. by 2030 as it ramps up construction.

Meanwhile, Canada is navigating its own political transition. With Prime Minister Justin Trudeau stepping down and Mark Carney emerging as a leading contender to helm the Liberal Party, the country is at a crossroads. Carney, a former Bank of Canada governor, brings a pragmatic, global perspective. He may prioritize nuclear expansion as a key part of Canada’s climate and economic strategy. Ontario plans to build new reactors, while Quebec’s hydro-nuclear synergy boosts Canada’s role. Together, they position the country as a key energy player. 

These political shifts signal a potential alignment: both nations could see nuclear power as a dual-purpose tool for decarbonization and economic growth. But the devil, as always, lies in the details—especially when tariffs enter the equation. 

⚖️ Tariffs and Nuclear Energy Policy Shifts 

The U.S.-Canada relationship, long defined by robust trade, has hit choppy waters with Trump’s imposition of 25% tariffs on Canadian goods, effective March 2025, and Canada’s retaliatory 25% tariffs on $155 billion of U.S. imports. While these measures stem from broader trade disputes—fueled by Trump’s concerns over fentanyl and border security—they ripple into the nuclear sector in unexpected ways. 

Take uranium, the lifeblood of nuclear reactors. Canada supplies over a quarter of the U.S.’s uranium—more than any other source. As tariffs begin April 2, 2025, uncertainty is already spooking buyers. U.S. utilities rely on Canadian uranium for reactor fuel. Now, they face higher costs or must diversify supply chains. This could slow the momentum of new reactor projects or retrofits, just as the U.S. seeks to maintain its nuclear edge. 

On the flip side, Canada’s nuclear industry isn’t immune to the fallout. Ontario, a powerhouse in nuclear generation, exports surplus electricity—much of it emissions-free—to states like Michigan, Minnesota, and New York. Premier Doug Ford responded to U.S. tariffs with a 25% surcharge on exports. Though later paused, it shows how energy trade can become a bargaining chip. If tensions escalate, Ford has hinted at cutting off exports entirely—a move that could strain U.S. grids while forcing Canada to rethink its own energy economics. 

Then there’s the supply chain angle. Nickel, critical for reactor alloys, is another Canadian export hit by tariffs. With the U.S. lacking domestic nickel refineries, higher costs could trickle down to nuclear construction and maintenance, dampening the commercial renaissance just as it gains steam. 

🌟 Opportunities Amid the Noise 

Yet, it’s not all gloom. Political will in both countries could turn these nuclear energy policy shifts into catalysts. In the U.S., tariffs might spur investment in domestic uranium mining and enrichment—sectors that have lagged despite America’s vast reserves. Canada, meanwhile, could use its nuclear expertise to deepen global partnerships. It may export SMRs to energy-hungry international markets seeking clean solutions. Ontario’s SMR ambitions and Canada’s stable regulatory framework make it an attractive hub for innovation. 

Cross-border collaboration could also rebound. The U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) will be renegotiated in 2026. This offers a chance to carve out exemptions for energy trade. Recent talks between U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, Canada’s Finance Minister Dominic LeBlanc, and Premier Ford hint at a willingness to de-escalate. If nuclear inputs like uranium and nickel get special treatment, the renaissance could stay on track. 

💬 What’s Next? A Call for Dialogue 

The commercial nuclear power renaissance in Canada and the U.S. stands at a pivotal moment. Political leadership in both nations seems to favor nuclear’s potential, but tariffs and trade friction threaten to derail progress. Higher costs could stall projects, while retaliatory measures risk fracturing a historically symbiotic energy relationship. Yet, with strategic policy—think targeted exemptions or joint investments—these hurdles could become stepping stones. 

So, what do you think? Can Canada and the U.S. navigate this political and economic turbulence to keep the nuclear renaissance alive? Should tariffs be a wake-up call for self-sufficiency, or a push toward deeper integration? I’d love to hear your insights—whether you’re in policy, industry, or just passionate about our energy future. Let’s keep the conversation going.

As nuclear energy policy shifts continue to evolve, one thing is clear: collaboration and clarity will be critical. Either way, Accelerant Solutions remains a trusted partner in nuclear energy training, and we stand ready to support the industry—wherever the road leads.