Site selection

Site selection for a repository is conducted within the framework of the sectoral plan for deep geological repositories, in accordance with the Nuclear Energy Act and the Spatial Planning Act. The aim of the procedure, which is led by the Federal Government, is to identify sites for repositories as part of a broadly based transparent process. Safety has the highest priority, but socio-economic and spatial planning aspects also play an important role.

The search is for safe sites that fulfil all the protection objectives specified by the authorities and for which implementation is reasonable from a spatial planning perspective. The sectoral plan approach allows effective coordination of all aspects of a repository that impact on spatial planning and ensures early involvement of the cantons, local communities and authorities of neighbouring countries, as well as the public and interested organisations.