Consent-Based Siting Process for Federal Consolidated Interim Storage of Spent Nuclear Fuel

In this document, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) outlines its road map for implementing a consent-based siting process to site one or more federal consolidated interim storage facilities for spent nuclear fuel. 

This document revises and improves upon the draft consent-based siting process issued in 2017. It reflects public input provided in response to the 2021 RFI, DOE’s request for public comment on the initial draft consent-based siting process in 2017, several expert reports, and lessons learned from decades of siting experience with nuclear waste management, and other types of facilities in the United States and abroad. It also reflects several core principles and guiding values, including a commitment to protect public health and safety and the environment, prioritize environmental justice and social equity, focus on communities, enable broad participation, and work to build and sustain public trust and confidence.