Expert Support and Alternative Solutions Framework

Nuclear Waste Services (NWS), through its Waste Services line of business, will provide an Expert Support & Alternative Treatment Solutions (ESAS) service to both Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (NDA) and non-NDA customers. The ESAS Framework (estimated value of £14.5m, although formally a zero-value agreement with no spend guaranteed) will be available to all NWS customers with a Waste Services Contract. The Framework includes:

- On-site support;

- Technical and professional waste services;

- Enabling activities;

- Development and delivery of alternative solutions (including pilots);

- Research & Development;

- Container and Package Quality.

As the diversion of LLW from LLW Repository (nr Drigg, Cumbria) has become business as usual over the past 10 years and decommissioning programmes at customer sites have matured; the types of waste being managed through NWS frameworks has changed. NWS is seeing an increase in the number of challenging / problematic waste streams which require broader waste acceptance criteria and/or a range of specialist waste management advice/support. Customers often also require support higher up in the waste lifecycle / value chain, covering route development / optimisation, characterisation techniques and training of their internal resources. This trend is set to continue as further changes in decommissioning occur over the next decade.

The ESAS Framework therefore supports NWS' mission and vision by providing access to an experienced pool of expert resources and fit for purpose responsive solutions. The Framework provides access to contractors with knowledge and understanding across the full radioactive waste management lifecycle and the ability to operate and execute work and provide support at any stage of the lifecycle.

The Framework will be for use by organisations that either currently hold, or may in future enter into, a Waste Services Contract with NWS. These organisations include private sector bodies, plus public sector bodies that fall into one or more of the following categories (please see attachment).