Atomic Energy of Canada Limited (AECL) has contracted CNL to manage and operate its sites and facilities across the country. It is also contracted to carry out AECL’s mandate to enable nuclear science and technology and to protect the environment by fulfilling the government of Canada’s radioactive waste and decommissioning responsibilities. In turn, AECL sets the direction and oversees the contract.
While AECL owns the sites and the nuclear liabilities, CNL is responsible for the day-to-day operations and maintenance of the facilities. CNL operates under a GoCo model, meaning government-owned, contractor-operated.
The Government of Canada selected the Canadian National Energy Alliance, a private sector consortium that represents some of the world’s most experienced nuclear engineering and management firms, to run CNL in 2015 after an international competition.