By exploring the evolution of techno-scientific promises and expert communities in the nuclear sector, over time and across countries, the project generates knowledge about the role of such factors in fostering and hindering sustainability transition. The evolution of nuclear-sector promises and “epistemic communities” are studied in Finland, Canada, France, Sweden, and the United Kingdom. The focus is on Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), with the older fusion, fast breeder, and nuclear waste disposal promises as complementary cases. The nuclear-sector analysis is placed within a broader context of energy scenarios and visions of the future, including those of a hydrogen economy and 100%-renewable energy systems. Using methodologies of science and technology studies (STS) and pragmatic sociology, including IT-assisted methods of qualitative analysis, the project draws on documentary material (press articles, reports, scholarly articles), expert and stakeholder interviews, and archives.

2022

2026