Navigating Nuclear Technology Transition : Challenges in Spent Nuclear Fuel Management in Sweden

Sammanfattning

The thesis explored the challenges associated with Spent Nuclear Fuel (SNF) management in Sweden, with a particular focus on addressing these challenges before the implementation of Small modular Rectors (SMRs). Spent Nuclear Fuel (SNF) is highly radioactive waste generated after nuclear fuel is used in conventional reactors in Sweden. The research uses a qualitative methodology for collecting and analyzing the obtained data. The purposive sampling method and semi-structured interviews are used to collect the data. Using thematic analysis, findings from primary and secondary sources are analyzed to derive insights. The structural components of the technology innovation system (TIS) framework and TIS functions are used to assess various aspects of SNF management in Sweden. The research aims to identify the stakeholders involved and their role in Sweden's SNF management. With the support of structural components of TIS and TIS functions, the thesis highlights the key structural characteristics of stakeholders related to the SNF management system in Sweden. Moreover, The research focuses on identifying both technical and non-technical challenges of current SNF management in Sweden. By examining those challenges, the research tries to find out how these may affect future SNF management, particularly for SMRs. The findings indicate that there exist technical challenges such as limited SNF storage capacity at the interim storage facility in Sweden. In addition, non-technical challenges such as ineffective decision-making processes and inadequate collaboration between crucial institutions have also been identified as potential barriers to current SNF management in Sweden. The research offers valuable insights for all the stakeholders and contributes towards the long-term sustainability and security of Sweden’s nuclear energy. Additionally, the thesis focuses on the future hurdle that possibly developed in SNF management in Sweden. These challenges might arise in SNF management in Sweden while implementing SMRs. The insights obtained from this thesis not only highlight the importance of improving the current SNF management but also highlight the need to implement proactive measures for a smooth transition to SMRs by securing the effectiveness of SNF management. The presented thesis work tries to fill the research gap in SNF management research.