Considerations on Decommissioning in the Design of Small Modular Reactors

This publication offers guidance on a wide range of design considerations for small modular reactors, with the aim of facilitating their safe, efficient and cost effective decommissioning. It emphasizes the importance of early dismantling once facilities have reached their end of life and are permanently shut down. Making use of the operational knowledge and technical skills accumulated during the facility's life cycle helps ensure that actual decommissioning costs align closely with pre-shutdown estimates. The publication draws upon lessons learned, good practices and technical insights from currently operating reactors to inform design approaches for small modular reactors.