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Euratom Framework Programme 2012-2013: fusion energy, nuclear fission and radiation protection; specific programme for indirect actions

2011/0043(NLE)

PURPOSE: to adopt the specific programme, to be carried out by means of indirect actions, implementing the Framework Programme of the European Atomic Energy Community for nuclear research and training activities (2012 – 2013).

NON-LEGISLATIVE ACT: Council Decision 2012/94/Euratom concerning the specific programme, to be carried out by means of indirect actions, implementing the Framework Programme of the European Atomic Energy Community for nuclear research and training activities (2012-2013).

CONTENT: the Council extended, for a two-year period, the European Atomic Energy Community (Euratom) framework programme for nuclear research. The Euratom programme, which expires at the end of 2011, has been extended in order to align it with the end of the EU's current financial cycle in 2013. Euratom programmes are limited by the Euratom treaty to five years, whereas the general 7th framework programme for research, which runs until the end of 2013, lasts for seven years.

It should be noted that this Decision is closely linked to the proposal on the Framework Programme of the European Atomic Energy Community for nuclear research (2012 -2013), the proposal on the rules for the participation of undertakings, research centres and universities in indirect actions under the Framework Programme and the specific programme, to be carried out by means of direct actions, implementing the Framework Programme.

Main themes: the specific programme covers the following issues:

(1) Fusion energy research: the objective of this thematic priority is to develop the knowledge base for, and to realise ITER as the major step towards, the creation of prototype reactors for power stations that are safe, sustainable, environmentally responsible and economically viable. This thematic priority includes the following areas of activity:

  • realisation of ITER;
  • R&D to prepare for ITER operation;
  • activities to prepare for DEMO;
  • R&D activities for the longer term;
  • human resources, education and training;
  • infrastructures;
  • technology transfer, industry involvement and innovation.

(2) Nuclear fission and radiation protection: the objectives of this thematic priority are to establish a sound scientific and technical basis in order to accelerate practical developments for the safer management of long-lived radioactive waste, to enhance in particular the safety, resource efficiency and cost-effectiveness of nuclear energy and to ensure a robust and socially acceptable system of protection of man and the environment against the effects of ionising radiation. This thematic priority includes the following areas of activity:

  • management of ultimate radioactive waste;
  • reactor systems;
  • radiation protection;
  • infrastructures;
  • human resources and training.

Ethical aspects: research activities carried out within this specific programme should respect fundamental ethical principles, including those reflected in the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union.

Financial envelope: the maximum amount for the execution of the specific programme is EUR 2 327 054 000, of which up to 15 % shall be for the Commission's administrative expenditure. This amount is allocated as follows: (a) fusion energy research: EUR 2 208 809 000; (b) nuclear fission, safety and radiation protection: EUR 118 245 000.

ENTRY INTO FORCE: 21/02/2012.