Procurement Horizon of 100,000 Years with SKB

An in depth commitment to the safe disposal of radioactive waste
The expansion of SFR (the final repository for short lived radioactive waste) involves the construction of six new rock caverns, each approximately 240–275 metres in length, making the facility around three times larger than it is today. As with the existing SFR, the expanded facility will be located in the bedrock beneath the seabed outside Forsmark. The expansion is planned to be constructed at a depth of approximately 120–140 metres, corresponding to the lowest level of the current SFR.

SKB is responsible for developing and operating Sweden’s facilities for the final disposal of radioactive waste. The final repository (SFK) will be constructed approximately 470 metres underground at Forsmark and will consist of an extensive tunnel system where canisters containing spent nuclear fuel are surrounded by copper, bentonite and bedrock.

At the same time, SKB is running several preparatory projects related to investigations, site characterisation, technical studies and the development of tender documentation ahead of forthcoming construction contracts.

The scale of the project, its technical complexity and stringent safety requirements place high demands on procurement, collaboration and long term planning. The assignments range from advanced technical consultancy services to research collaborations and preparations for extensive construction contracts. To maintain pace and quality, the project requires structured processes, clear agreements and a procurement organisation capable of managing highly specialised stakeholders.

Coreco has supported SKB across several key aspects of the project. We have carried out procurements related to the canister repository and ventilation simulations, developed procurement strategies and prepared the issue of tender documentation to collaborative contractors. We have also negotiated and entered into agreements, including with Uppsala University regarding the national seismic network, a ten year agreement with a total value of approximately SEK 30 million. This work has provided deeper insight into Swedish seismological research and strengthened the project’s technical foundation.

In addition, we developed a framework agreement between SKB and Vattenfall Services Nordic for specialist technical consultants, enabling a more efficient call off process aligned with the project’s needs. Thanks to previous collaborations with both SKB and Vattenfall Services Nordic, we were able to quickly establish effective working routines and contribute with industry knowledge and a broad supplier network.

More references

Read about other projects Coreco has delivered within real estate and investment advisory, the placement of procurement consultants, and the recruitment of procurement professionals.

Do you have a project, an investment, or a question you would like to discuss?

Leave your details and we will get in touch.