Deep Geological Repository for Canada’s Nuclear Fuel Project
Current status: Proposed nuclear facility
The Nuclear Waste Management Organization (NWMO) is seeking an initial licence for its Deep Geological Repository (DGR) for Canada’s Used Nuclear Fuel Project, located near the Wabigoon Lake Ojibway Nation–Ignace area in Ontario. As proposed, the project would contain and isolate approximately 5.9 million bundles of used nuclear fuel. The project is expected to last over 160 years, covering site preparation, construction, operation, decommissioning, closure, and post-closure monitoring.
This project is subject to an integrated assessment to meet the requirements of the Impact Assessment Act and the Nuclear Safety and Control Act. The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) serves as the lifecycle regulator for all federally licenced nuclear activities.
Facility information
| Proposed location | Wabigoon Lake Ojibway Nation–Ignace area, Ontario. |
|---|---|
| Proponent | Nuclear Waste Management Organization (NWMO) |
| Status | Integrated assessment – Impact statement phase |
| Facility website | NWMO |
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Phases
There are 5 phases in an integrated assessment. This project is currently in Phase 1 – Planning.
- Phase 1 – Planning
- Phase 2 – Impact statement
- Phase 3 – Impact assessment
- Phase 4 – Decision
- Phase 5 – Post-decision
Learn how integrated assessments are conducted.
About the Impact statement phase
In this phase, the proponent assesses the impacts of the project, engages with Indigenous Peoples and the public, and submits a detailed technical document called an Impact Statement. That document is based on the requirements outlined in the Tailored Impact Statement Guidelines issued in Phase 1.
The purpose of the Impact Statement is to identify and assess the impacts of the project, how various people may be affected, and the measures proposed to mitigate these effects.
Engagement
The CNSC recognizes the importance of engaging and building relationships with the public living near existing or proposed nuclear facilities and with other interested parties.
Public information and disclosure program
CNSC regulations ensure that licensees communicate information effectively about activities at licensed facilities that are of interest to the public.
Related links
- Canadian Impact Assessment Registry
- IAAC–CNSC memorandum of understanding
- The CNSC's early involvement in the NWMO's Adaptive Phased Management approach
- Radioactive waste
- REGDOC-1.2.3, Licence Application Guide: Licence to Prepare Site for a Deep Geological Repository
- REGDOC-2.11, Framework for Radioactive Waste Management and Decommissioning in Canada
- REGDOC-2.12.3, Security of Nuclear Substances: Sealed Sources and Category I, II and III Nuclear Material
- REGDOC-1.2.1, Guidance on Deep Geological Repository Site Characterization
- REGDOC-1.2.2, Licence Application Guide: Class IB Processing Facilities
- REGDOC-3.5.1, Information Dissemination: Licensing Process for Class I Nuclear Facilities and Uranium Mines and Mills
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