Project costs
Our lifecycle cost estimate for Canada’s first deep geological repository project ensures funding will be available when needed.
Overview
One of the NWMO’s responsibilities is determining the lifecycle cost of the project so we can ensure the funds will be available when needed. We completed a full update of the cost estimate in 2021, and the next update is in development.
Based on the latest cost estimate, the total cost for construction of Canada’s first deep geological repository is approximately $4.5 billion (in 2020 dollars) and the funding required for the entire lifecycle from 2026 onwards would be $12 billion (using 2026 present value).
The funds in place today will grow to cover the full cost of the project over the long term, based on continued additional payments from the funders of the project and through expected investment income that will also grow over time.
Cost estimate reports – 2021
Cost estimate reports – 2016
Cost estimate reports – 2011
- APM Conceptual Design and Cost Estimate for a Deep Geological Repository in Crystalline Rock - Summary Report (October 2011)
- APM Conceptual Design and Cost Estimate Update, Deep Geological Repository in Crystalline Rock - NWMO Input to Cost Estimate (October 2011)
- APM Conceptual Design and Cost Estimate Update, Deep Geological Repository Design Report, Crystalline Rock Environment - Copper Used Fuel Container (August 2011)
- APM Conceptual Design and Cost Estimate Update - Transportation Design Report (August 2011)
- APM Conceptual Design and Cost Estimate Update - Life Cycle Cost Estimate for Used Fuel Transportation System (August 2011)
- APM Conceptual Design and Cost Estimate Update, Deep Geological Repository Lifecycle Cost and Schedule Report, Crystalline Rock Environment - Copper Used Fuel Container (August 2011)
