Economic and financial approaches to spent nuclear fuel, radioactive waste, and decommissioning: an international review and implications for Türkiye

Abstract With the global resurgence of nuclear energy, the sustainable management of the back-end fuel cycle – specifically radioactive waste (RW) management and nuclear decommissioning (D&D) – has emerged as a critical technical and financial challenge. While technical capabilities are advancing, establishing robust, long-term financing mechanisms remains a primary hurdle for newcomer nuclear nations. This review study systematically evaluates Türkiye’s current approach by comparing its legal frameworks and funding mechanisms with those of established nuclear countries, alongside guidelines from the IAEA and OECD NEA. Moving beyond generic cost evaluations, the paper integrates the latest, highly specific national developments. This includes the recent operationalization of the Special Accounts Board and the official 2025 submission of the initial decommissioning cost plan for the Akkuyu NPP. Based on these findings and Türkiye’s official target of reaching 20 GWe nuclear capacity by 2050, the study identifies existing gaps regarding spent nuclear fuel (SNF) repatriation and open/closed fuel cycle contingencies. Consequently, we provide a novel financial and technical roadmap outlining specific strategies for near-surface disposal facilities (NSDF) and deep geological repositories (DGR) projected for the 2040–2050 period. Ultimately, this study offers actionable recommendations for newcomer nations to ensure fiscal readiness, intergenerational equity, and environmental safety.