Design

Design of the interim storage facilities

The decentralised interim storage facilities at the nuclear power plant sites have been designed and built according to two basic interim storage types since 2000. Only the interim storage facility at Neckarwestheim constitutes an exception. This is due to site-specific conditions. Despite the different designs, all interim storage facilities meet the requirements for the safe storage of radioactive waste, and are also secured against scenarios such as the deliberate crash of an aircraft.

Extension of construction protection of the on-site interim storage facilities

In view of new requirements on plant security, the operators of the on-site interim storage facilities filed an application in 2010/2011 for the extension of construction protection of the on-site interim storage facilities from disruptive actions or other third-party intervention (SEWD). The retrofitting measures serve to optimise the security measures. In order for the measures to be taken, a licence according to construction law is needed, among others, in addition to a nuclear licence.

Licences for the storage of nuclear fuel at interim storage facilities

Since 30 July 2016, the Federal Office for the Safety of Nuclear Waste Management has been responsible for issuing licences for the storage of nuclear fuel at interim storage facilities in accordance with Section 6 of the Atomic Energy Act. Supervision of the licensed facilities falls under the responsibility of the competent federal state authorities.

Licensing procedure and assessment of safety

Before BASE can grant a licence for the storage of high-level radioactive waste, the operator of the facility must demonstrate compliance with all necessary safety requirements. To this end, they must submit a protection concept that includes both measures against damage that could result from the storage of nuclear fuel at an interim storage facility, as well as
measures against criminal and terrorist acts.

In the scope of the licensing procedure, BASE will examine whether the safety required according to the state of the art in science and technology is ensured for the entire period of storage applied for. In addition, BASE will review significant changes that affect, for example, the inventory or the security measures of the facilities. Only if the applicant can provide all the necessary evidence will BASE grant a licence. BASE is also responsible for informing the public about the licensing procedures.