Industry declaration in support of multinational nuclear waste solutions

Setting up the world’s first multinational repository for the disposal of spent nuclear fuel, and then repeating this across multiple locations, is a major endeavour that promises to transform the global nuclear sector for the better. Fortunately, DeepGEO is not alone. By signing this declaration the following companies and organisations distinguish themselves as proactively seeking to address the future waste challenges and improve the sustainability of nuclear energy by exploring innovative, multinational solutions.

If your company or organisation is interested in signing this public declaration please get in touch.

Nuclear waste is a serious global challenge that requires coordinated effort and innovative, commercial solutions. The advanced nuclear community must come together to address the issue effectively.

As a member of the advanced nuclear community we are aiming to improve the sustainability of the energy system either through developing or facilitating the introduction of more clean and efficient nuclear technologies, or by introducing the use of nuclear energy for applications which is currently served by more polluting alternatives. However, to ensure the sustainability of nuclear energy in the future, it is essential that more practical and flexible options become available for the storage and disposal of spent nuclear fuel.

Today, most countries plan to develop their own repositories for the disposal of spent nuclear fuel, but progress has been slow and fragmented. Only a few countries have made tangible progress, and even in these countries the current plans deal mainly with the current waste inventory from existing or previous nuclear plants and not material which may be produced in the future. The nuclear waste issue remains one of the most difficult and pressing public acceptance challenges the global industry faces

While slow-moving national government-led disposal programmes may suit large traditional (often nationally-led) nuclear projects, they are less compatible with the evolving needs of the advanced nuclear sector. In addition to established companies this is filled with private start-ups which are developing novel technologies and business models, including leasing concepts and providing ‘nuclear energy as a service’. The uncertain progress on national disposal facilities leaves companies such as ours at risk, as investors demand clear and sustainable waste management strategies.

Commercial multinational deep geological repositories for spent nuclear fuel offer numerous advantages, including lower overall costs of disposal, reduced environmental impact and improved global security. Moreover, they enable newcomer countries to start their nuclear energy programs with certainty. By adhering to best practise, such as consent based siting and through following international standards these facilities can be world-class and help to promote support the accelerated development of nuclear energy world-wide.

Through signing this letter we publicly express our support for the development of multinational repositories such as those being pursued by DeepGEO.

Media Contact

David Hess

Chief Business Development Officer