Site selection procedure

The site selection procedure starts from a "white map". This means that all German federal states and all regions are included in the search. The areas are examined for their suitability on the basis of existing geological data via explorations. They are excluded, evaluated and compared until the best possible site for a repository remains at the end.

Search procedure

Source: BASE

1. Identification of sub-areas

In the 1st phase, BGE mbH, the company commissioned with the search, collects geological data from the Länder and evaluates it according to legally defined criteria. These include exclusion criteria such as earthquake risk, volcanism or damage to the subsurface by mining. Furthermore, BGE mbH examines which areas meet the minimum requirements in its view. For example, 300 metres of rock should separate the repository from the earth's surface. A sufficiently thick layer of granite, salt or clay must surround the repository.

In order to give citizens an insight into the status of the work as early as possible, BGE mbH presented its interim report for discussion. It published it on 28 September 2020. It shows which areas the company considers to be potentially unsuitable due to geological factors. The report does not specify which areas will be investigated and which will not. That will only happen at the end of the first phase.

The publication of the interim report was also the starting signal for the first legally prescribed participation format: the expert conference on sub-areas. The kick-off event on 17/18 October 2020 aimed to create a uniform basis of information for all interested parties and to initiate the self-organisation of the conference. Subsequently, municipalities, social organisations, citizens and scientists were able to discuss the interim report in three consultation meetings in February, June and August 2021. The expert conference collects its discussions in a final report, which BGE mbH has to take into account in its further work.

After further data evaluation, at the end of the first phase BGE mbH submits the proposal for the siting regions to be explored above ground to BASE, which examines it. It also sets up a regional conference in each of the possible regions to involve the local citizens. At the end of the participation and review process, BASE submits the proposal to the Federal Government. The elected representatives of the Bundestag decide by law which areas are to be explored further.

2. Surface exploration

In the 2nd phase, the surface explorations take place on site. BGE mbH investigates the subsurface by means of exploratory drilling and seismic measurements. This gives BGE mbH an accurate picture of the geology, after which it proposes which sites should be explored underground. Here, too, BASE examines the proposal; the final decision is again made by the legislator.

3. Underground exploration

In the 3rd phase, BGE mbH builds exploratory mines at at least two sites. Geologists investigate the rock using boreholes and other methods. The BASE evaluates the results of the investigations and the participation procedure and submits the reviewed suggestion together with its recommendations for a disposal site with the best possible safety. The final decision on the site will again be made by the Bundestag by law.