Centre of Expertise
The centre will become a hub for knowledge sharing across Canada and internationally and a focal point for those living in the area to learn about the project through public viewing galleries and interactive displays. The centre may also serve as a hub for sharing Indigenous Knowledge, culture, history and traditions.
The design and use of the centre will be developed collaboratively with those living in the area, including First Nation and Métis communities. In 2022, the NWMO began working with local communities to develop a vision for the centre in a manner that aligns with their requirements and aspirations. This visioning process and continued dialogue around community interests for the facility will continue in both siting regions in the coming years, supporting ongoing dialogue and the unique opportunities the centre could provide.
For the NWMO’s needs, the centre will initially be used to support the continued site characterization work related to technical safety, ongoing education and dialogue, and community well-being. It will be home to active technical and social research, as well as technological demonstration programs, with contributions from scientists and other experts in a wide variety of disciplines from both the NWMO and around the world. An engineering test facility will be located within the Centre of Expertise to continue the development of materials and equipment to be used in the repository, and to support the construction and operation of the facility in the future.
Once both community and the NWMO’s requirements are finalized, the project will begin.
