This publication reports on the DACCORD project, which supports Member States in preparing preliminary cost estimates for the decommissioning of research reactors. The report is of particular benefit to programmes with limited decommissioning experience. Costing projects for the decommissioning of research reactors can be broad in scope with many possible inputs and influences that require due consideration in developing the estimate. The publication provides information on unit factors for research reactor decommissioning and a basis for estimating uncertainties and contingencies and for assessing the impact of decommissioning planning and characterization activities. It also addresses the use of the CERREX-D2 (Cost Estimate for Research Reactors in Excel) software code, developed by the IAEA to enable non-specialist users to develop preliminary cost estimates for decommissioning.

Cost estimation for the decommissioning of nuclear facilities can vary considerably in format, content and practice both within and across countries. These differences may have legitimate reasons but make the process of reviewing estimates complicated and the estimates themselves difficult to defend. Hence, the joint initiative of the OECD Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA), the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and the European Commission (EC) was undertaken to propose a standard itemisation of decommissioning costs either directly for the production of cost estimates or for mapping estimates onto a standard, common structure for purposes of comparison. This report updates the earlier itemisation published in 1999 and takes into account experience accumulated thus far. The revised cost itemisation structure has sought to ensure that all costs within the planned scope of a decommissioning project may be reflected. The report also provides general guidance on developing a decommissioning cost estimate, including detailed advice on using the structure.

The main aim of this publication is to disseminate experience in and guidance on cost estimates for research reactor decommissioning projects. It presents the principles and background for a costing methodology based on the International Structure for Decommissioning Costing (ISDC) of Nuclear Installations. The methodology presented implements actual experience in decommissioning costing and is in line with IAEA efforts promoting harmonization in this field. The IAEA has contributed to the development of software called CERREX (Cost Estimate for Research Reactors in Excel), a simpler version suitable for preliminary costing stages, which is included on the attached CD-ROM, together with a user manual. Several practical examples of software implementation and clarification of some details of available methodologies and models are also provided.

This is the first report published by the IAEA which provides guidance on the preparation and implementation of the decommissioning of different types of research reactor. Different construction and operational features of research reactors have a major impact on the decommissioning techniques required. This report offers information on the conclusions drawn from a number of completed projects and identifies their similarities and differences. It is complemented by a computerized research reactor databank. Staff requirements, decommissioning costs waste activity are presented graphically according to reactor thermal power and integrated energy.

While refurbishments for the long-term operation of nuclear power plants and for the lifetime extension of such plants have been widely pursued in recent years, the number of plants to be decommissioned is nonetheless expected to increase in future, particularly in the United States and Europe. It is thus important to understand the costs of decommissioning so as to develop coherent and cost-effective strategies, realistic cost estimates based on decommissioning plans from the outset of operations and mechanisms to ensure that future decommissioning expenses can be adequately covered. This study presents the results of an NEA review of the costs of decommissioning nuclear power plants and of overall funding practices adopted across NEA member countries. The study is based on the results of this NEA questionnaire, on actual decommissioning costs or estimates, and on plans for the establishment and management of decommissioning funds. Case studies are included to provide insight into decommissioning practices in a number of countries.

As part of the Action Plan on Nuclear Safety, the IAEA led the International Project on Managing the Decommissioning and Remediation of Damaged Nuclear Facilities (DAROD Project). The DAROD Project focuses on providing practical guidance for the decommissioning and remediation of accident damaged nuclear facilities based on case studies of actual damaged facilities and lessons learned. This publication summarizes the outcomes of the DAROD Project. It is intended for regulatory bodies, operating organizations, technical support organizations and governmental officials who are involved in the decommissioning and remediation of nuclear facilities damaged after an accident or owing to a legacy deterioration.