Canadian Nuclear Laboratories (CNL) has completed ahead of schedule the transfer of all used nuclear fuel from the Gentilly 1 Waste Management Facility (G1WF) site in Québec to Chalk River Laboratories (CRL). This marks completion of the Gentilly 1 Fuel Consolidation Project, clearing the way for the next steps in the decommissioning and environmental remediation of the facility. CNL undertook the work on behalf of Atomic Energy of Canada Limited (AECL).
The preparation, packaging and transportation of the used fuel was carried out safely and efficiently and brought together expertise from across CNL. “The efficient and safe completion of this important project reflects the deep expertise CNL has developed through years of complex, technical work in nuclear material management,” said Mark Chapman, senior director of the Fuel Program. “The project required detailed planning and coordination, including the development of specialised fuel-handling systems, and enhancements to storage infrastructure at CRL.”
The fuel is now securely stored in modern purpose-built canisters at the Chalk River Laboratories – where it will remain until the Nuclear Waste Management Organisation’s planned long-term disposal facility for used nuclear fuel becomes available. CNL’s strategy is aligned with Canada’s national policy to reduce the number of waste sites by centralising the safe and secure storage of fuel waste.
“The successful delivery of this project is a reflection of the expertise, dedication, and collaboration across our entire organisation,” said Jack Craig, CNL President and CEO.
Earlier this year, CNL submitted an application to the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) to amend the G1WF’s licence to authorise decommissioning activities. CNSC has announced a public hearing in writing scheduled for July 2026, to consider the proposed amendment for the Gentilly 1 Decommissioning Project. As part of this regulatory process, the public and Indigenous Nations, communities, and organisations will be invited to review and provide input on CNL’s plans. If approved, the amended licence would permit CNL to begin decommissioning all remaining buildings and structures at the site.
