RD&D-Programme 2004 - SKB

Transport tunnel
KBS-3V
Deposition tunnel
Deposition hole
Transport tunnel
KBS-3H
Deposition hole
Figure 1-8. The principle of vertical and horizontal deposition.
During the site investigation phase, descriptive models are devised for geology, groundwater
flow and biosphere on each site. These models serve as a basis for assessing the long-term
safety of the deep repository.
SKB’s goal for the site investigation phase is to obtain the permits that are needed to site and
build the deep repository and the encapsulation plant. For the deep repository, the construction
phase will then be able to be commenced on the selected site. The primary task for SKB during
the coming years is to assemble supporting material for the applications, carry out consultations
and prepare environmental impact statements (EISs) in compliance with the requirements of
the law. Permit or permissibility review takes place primarily under the Nuclear Activities Act,
the Environmental Code and the Planning and Building Act. An EIS must be appended to the
applications. This document shall identify and describe the direct and indirect effects which the
planned activity may have on man, the environment and society. The scope of the EIS is arrived
at within the framework of the consultations that are held.
1.4 Repositories for low- and intermediate-level waste
The volumes of short-lived low- and intermediate-level waste will increase when the nuclear
power plants are decommissioned. SKB believes that expansion of SFR is the best solution for
this type of waste. Such an expansion does not have to be finished before decommissioning of
the nuclear power plants has begun.
If the nuclear power plants are still in operation in the mid-2020s, an expansion of the existing
SFR may be considered for disposal of the growing quantity of operational waste.
Other long-lived waste is interim-stored today in Clab, at the nuclear power plants and in
Studsvik. The volume of this waste is small so far, but is increasing and will increase further
when the nuclear power plants are decommissioned. To relieve Clab, SKB plans to interim-store
this type of waste under dry conditions. This can be done in a rock cavern at Simpevarp and
later in SFR as well. According to current plans, the interim storage facility does not have to be
ready for use until around 2020. A final repository will be needed 25 years later.
28 RD&D-Programme 2004