Geological disposal site studies

The surveys are planned in accordance with the safety requirements set for the project (site for a plant, power plant waste storage or final disposal site for nuclear waste) and existing information. If there are multiple candidate sites, the surveys are conducted in phases and the results are compared at each phase. Sites found unsuitable during the process will be dropped and the most promising sites will be studied in increasing detail.

Our aim is to cost-efficiently provide sufficient evidence that the sites selected for the final selection process fulfil the geological criteria set for the project. The areas of research for the site selection include the constructability of the area and estimating construction costs, which is why the gathered initial data must be extensive enough to be used as a basis for the provisional design of the plant as well.

After a site is selected and approved by officials, even more detailed surveys are conducted to support permit processes and safety assessments. The information can also be used in the plant’s design and use throughout the its lifecycle. Geological surveys are typically conducted in various scales, starting from a general survey of the area and focusing in on the actual construction site in stages.

For nuclear power plant projects, the geological surveys end when construction begins. However, in nuclear waste disposal, geological information is gathered and analysed throughout the site’s operations. The aim of this is to assess the bedrock’s suitability for disposal purposes, to steer planning and construction and to ensure that the excavated space is used as efficiently as possible.

Throughout a site selection study, existing information and material is collected and new geological information is produced when necessary. In addition to suitability assessment and assisting in planning and construction, the data gathered is used as reference material in assessing environmental impact. It supports monitoring the site and can be used as initial data for a continuously updated safety analysis. Studies based on scientific research are also a prerequisite for meeting the requirements set by authorities and the cornerstone of a successful project.

Service content

• Planning the geological and geophysical surveys
• Coordinating research throughout the project
• Geological and geophysical site surveys
• Groundwater surveys
• Interpretation and modelling (e.g. geological 3D models, hydrogeochemistry)
• Mineralogical surveying
• Analysis services
• Constructability surveys
• Reporting and information management

Your benefits

• You will receive support for geological site surveys based on extensive experience and scientific research from an unbiased expert.
• You only need one supplier for all necessary geological surveys.
• Thorough and high-quality surveys are required by government regulations.