Ontario Power Generation's latest report on the controversial Deep Geologic Repository for radioactive waste close to Lake Huron affirms the company's position that the a waste storage site close to the nation's largest nuclear power facility is a more attractive option than shipping the waste elsewhere.
The risk of shipping contaminated materials up to 2,000 kilometers away would increase risks of accident to the point that it would be safer to bury it close to the Bruce nuclear power plant near Kindcardine, Ontario, according to the report.
Shipping the waste would have one clear advantage, the report concludes. That would be finding a burial site that is not as controversial due to its proximity to locations of traditional or historic importance to indigenous peoples, according to thestar.com.
The 144-page report is in response to a questionnaire from the federal government that included 23 specific information requests. The site, which would include a repository 680 meters below ground in stable, dry rock, is intended for low and intermediate-level nuclear waste generated at OPG power plants.
“We support a rigorous process of due diligence, to ensure that this important project is carefully examined before approval,” said OPG Vice President of Nuclear Waste Management Lise Morton.
Shipping the waste includes inherent risks, created by increased handling of material, conventional safety hazards associated with multiple waste package handling and conveyance tiedowns, the report says. Additional risks are associated with using commercial systems and infrastructure that is generally open for public use. In addition, incremental costs and scheduling issues increase risks.
The report envisions transportation by rail car and trucks on public roads. In addition to increased risks, costs also rise by adding in transportation. “While rail transportation can be less costly from an operating perspective, the capital costs associated with developing the infrastructure can be significant,” the report notes.