The province is opening up to the idea of nuclear power. After consulting with the public, the province says a majority of Albertans want it as a possibility.

In a telephone survey, The government called 5,000 Albertans and found 45 per cent believe nuclear power plants should be considered on a case-by-case basis. About 27 per cent said Alberta should oppose proposals, and a fifth feel such developments should be encouraged.

Energy Minister Mel Knight said he isn't for or against nuclear power. he said he's keeping all options for energy open.

"We would consider on a case-by-case basis, however Albertan's main concerns, health, safety and environmental standards would be met by an application," said Knight.

But critics pointed to another part of the province's study, one that was done online and suggests 55 per cent of Albertans are against nuclear plants.

"If this government was really interested in listening to Albertanas they would close the door and they would say we haven't had it up to now and we don't need it going forward," said NDP critic Rachel Notley.

The province maintains that the telephone poll is statistically representative of the population.

With files from Serena Mah