Policy and decision-making on nuclear technology

TNO supports governments and businesses in making and substantiating these decisions and helps address knowledge and information gaps where needed. We combine energy system knowledge with expertise in technology, economics, society and governance. This enables us to provide an integrated and transparent assessment of opportunities, innovation, risks and uncertainties.

To support decision-making, TNO investigates the role nuclear energy could play in the future Dutch and European energy system. Using energy system models and scenario analyses, we assess:

• how nuclear energy can be combined with wind, solar, heat, hydrogen and energy storage;
• the implications for security of supply, flexibility and energy infrastructure;
• what different choices mean for the costs of the overall energy system;
• how uncertainties in energy demand, technological development, investment costs and international energy trade affect potential outcomes.

Our analysis considers not only individual nuclear power plants, but also their interaction with the wider energy system. In this way, we support governments and businesses with independent analyses, policy scenarios and decision-support information for the future role of nuclear energy.

Supporting policy and decision-making

Decisions about nuclear energy involve major uncertainties and will affect several generations. TNO supports public authorities by providing independent analyses, policy scenarios and evidence for decision-making.

We investigate the conditions under which nuclear energy can be deployed safely, affordably and sustainably. We make assumptions, uncertainties and interdependencies explicit. Our analyses support decision-making but do not take the place of political or societal choices.

Our work covers issues such as:

• the economic and societal value of nuclear energy;
• financing and market conditions;
• energy system costs and societal costs and benefits;
• phasing and adaptive decision-making;
• the knowledge, skills and nuclear infrastructure required;
• cooperation between government, research organisations and industry.

TNO works with ministries, provinces, municipalities, research organisations, European partners and market participants. Our contribution ranges from an independent exploratory study or second opinion to multi-year research and innovation programmes. Depending on the question, we combine expertise in energy systems, safety, materials, sensors, digitalisation, maritime technology and societal integration.

In this way, we support government, research organisations and industry in the safe, reliable and societally responsible development of nuclear energy and other nuclear technologies.

Read more about nuclear energy in the future energy system.

Geological disposal

Responsible management of radioactive waste is an essential part of the nuclear lifecycle. In the Netherlands, radioactive waste is safely stored by COVRA. For the very long term, geological disposal is internationally regarded as a solution for the long-term isolation of radioactive waste in the subsurface. Through its expertise in the subsurface and innovative technologies, TNO supports governments, companies and societal organisations in research into future geological disposal solutions.

Various concepts for geological disposal are being investigated internationally. These range from purpose-built underground disposal facilities to disposal in deep boreholes. The suitability of a concept depends on factors such as the type of waste, the geological environment, technical feasibility, costs and societal considerations.

TNO supports the development of the knowledge base for these concepts through geological data, subsurface models and technology development. This includes work on innovations in deep boreholes, sealing systems and subsurface characterisation, including research into deep borehole disposal.

Societal integration and public trust

The future of nuclear energy will not be determined by technology and economics alone. Trust, participation, fairness, communication and the distribution of costs, benefits and risks are also important.

TNO investigates how policy can respond to societal concerns and opportunities surrounding nuclear energy and how public trust can be built and maintained.

Our work can include:

• stakeholder and environmental analyses;
• design of participation processes;
• research into public perceptions and trust;
• risk and science communication;
• consideration of societal values;
• development of adaptive policy.

The objective is not to create support for a predetermined solution, but to contribute to a transparent process in which different perspectives and uncertainties are taken seriously.

Read more about public trust in nuclear energy and adaptive policy.

Knowledge development and the innovation ecosystem

A sustainable nuclear knowledge base requires long-term cooperation between government, research organisations, universities, industry and education. TNO contributes to building and connecting this knowledge base.

We support the development of research and innovation programmes, help align Dutch and European knowledge agendas and bring parties together around shared challenges. In this role, TNO can act as an independent knowledge partner and systems integrator without assuming the responsibilities of government, regulators, technology providers or operators.

Policy and technology in context

Policy and decision-making are closely linked to technological development. Developments related to Small Modular Reactors, materials, monitoring and innovative applications help determine which choices are possible.

Read more about nuclear technology and innovation.

Work with TNO

Would you like to understand what role nuclear technology could play in your policy challenge? Or are you looking for an independent partner in societal integration, knowledge development or collaboration?

Contact TNO to explore opportunities for research, innovation and collaboration.