Construction has officially commenced on a new uranium mine in northern Saskatchewan. NexGen Energy Ltd. is embarking on the development of an underground uranium mine in the southern Athabasca Basin, situated approximately 130 kilometers north of La Loche. With an anticipated expenditure of $2.2 billion during the four-year construction phase, this project is set to become one of the world’s significant uranium sources.
During a groundbreaking ceremony at the mine site, Premier Scott Moe, former prime minister Stephen Harper, and local leaders from Metis Nation-Saskatchewan, and Desnethé-Missinippi-Churchill River MP Buckley Belanger delivered speeches. The initial focus is on constructing surface infrastructure, with shaft development slated to commence in 2027, alongside expanding the existing 914-meter airstrip to 1,780 meters.
NexGen CEO Leigh Curyer reflected on the challenging journey leading up to this milestone. Starting in 2012, the company faced initial setbacks before discovering valuable mineralization during drilling in 2014, marking the inception of what Curyer describes as a pivotal energy fuel project on a global scale.
The mine’s significance in meeting the escalating demand for electricity was emphasized by Curyer, who highlighted the pivotal role of nuclear energy in fulfilling this need, making uranium a crucial global resource. Projections indicate that the mine could yield up to 30 million pounds (over 13,000 tonnes) of uranium annually, representing around 20% of the current global supply.
Having obtained a construction and milling license from the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission in March, NexGen is now preparing to apply for an operational license. Once operational, the mine is expected to create 459 full-time jobs and operate for a lifespan of 24 years, with ongoing exploration in the region suggesting the potential for further uranium development.
Endorsements from Indigenous communities in proximity to the project have been secured, with benefit agreements signed with Clearwater River Dene Nation, Birch Narrows Dene Nation, Buffalo River Dene Nation, and Métis Nation—Saskatchewan. These agreements, while confidential, typically encompass employment guarantees, training opportunities, support for local businesses, and financial benefits.
Premier Scott Moe emphasized the economic opportunities that the project presents for the region, underscoring the importance of responsibly harnessing resources to benefit local communities and contribute to global energy needs. The initiative aligns with Saskatchewan’s strategic focus on sustainable resource development and clean energy production through nuclear power.
In parallel, NexGen is collaborating with Clearwater River Dene Nation and Métis Nation—Saskatchewan Local 39 to construct a 59-bed hotel in La Loche. Additionally, another uranium mine is underway in northern Saskatchewan, with Denison Mines Corp. developing the Phoenix uranium mine and mill site in the eastern Athabasca Basin. Anticipated to begin production in 2028, this project introduces innovative in-situ recovery methods for uranium extraction, indicating advancements in sustainable mining practices.