Status of the nuclear waste disposal program in Belgium

Since mid-1985, the installed nuclear power capacity in Belgium totals 5,450 MW(e) all of the PWR-type. Consequently, in 1986, about 65% of the generated electricity will be of nuclear origin. Belgium also takes part in the European Fast Breeder program and has taken a share in the SNRO-300 at Kalkar FRG. Two fuel fabrication plants are in operation: one for UO/sub 2/ fuel and one for MOX-fuel. With regard to reprocessing, the decision concerning the reopening of Eurochemic has not yet been taken but the plant has already accumulated some wastes from earlier operations. In the meantime, spent fuel is being reprocessed at La Hague-France. The relative importance of this program gives a special emphasis on the radioactive waste management issue taking into account that the country has a high population density and that its natural characteristics offer only limited opportunities for disposal