SAINT JOHN, N.B. -- The New Brunswick government is committing $10 million to establish the province as a leader in the field of small, modular nuclear reactor technology.

Energy Minister Rick Doucet made the announcement in Saint John, saying energy is a way to grow the economy.

He says the government is interested in the development of expertise related to non-carbon emitting technology.

New Brunswick's Candu 6 reactor at Point Lepreau is the only nuclear power plant in Atlantic Canada.

Doucet says New Brunswick is well-placed to play a role in the growth of the sector.

NB Power President Gaetan Thomas says the utility has been a leader in innovation, and is pleased to be able to conduct research into small modular reactors.