Protection From the Most Hazardous Radioactive Waste
Radioactive waste differs greatly in terms of radioactivity levels and lifespan. While most radioactive waste produced in France already benefits from existing disposal solutions, high-level waste (HLW) and intermediate-level long-lived waste (ILW-LL) require a dedicated long-term management solution.
Because of their radioactivity and the length of time for which they remain hazardous, these waste categories cannot be disposed of in near-surface facilities. The purpose of Cigéo is to provide a safe long-term disposal solution that protects people and the environment over very long timescales.
The waste intended for disposal in Cigéo consists of HLW and ILW-LL produced by the French nuclear industry. Approximately 83,000 m³ of waste are currently expected to be disposed of in the facility, including around 10,000 m³ of HLW and approximately 73,000 m³ of ILW-LL.
of the projected HLW and ILW-LL inventory has already been produced
What are HLW and ILW-LL?
High-level waste is primarily produced through the reprocessing of spent nuclear fuel. Following treatment, it is incorporated into a glass matrix and contained in stainless steel canisters.
Intermediate-level long-lived waste includes a variety of materials generated during the operation, maintenance and dismantling of nuclear facilities. It is conditioned in dedicated concrete or metallic packages designed for long-term management.
Where is the waste today?
Pending the commissioning of Cigéo, HLW and ILW-LL packages are stored at existing nuclear sites, primarily at La Hague, Marcoule, Cadarache and, for a more limited volume, Valduc.
Should Cigéo receive authorisation and enter operation, these packages will gradually be transferred to the disposal facility throughout its operating lifetime. Some HLW packages must remain in interim storage for several decades before disposal, allowing their thermal output to decrease.
A project designed to remain adaptable
Cigéo is designed with sufficient flexibility to accommodate a range of long-term energy policy scenarios and the associated variations in radioactive waste inventories.
The facility will be developed progressively over time, allowing future generations to take account of new knowledge, technological developments and potential changes in waste management strategies.
More information on the adaptability, reversibility and governance of the project is available in the corresponding sections.