Scope
Reference
C26852
Description
The ThermoChimie project (Thermo-Chimie (version applicative 4.4.0)) is a thermodynamic database development project, co-funded by Nuclear Waste Services, NIRAS-ONDRAF, and Andra.
A robust, traceable, exhaustive, and dependable thermodynamic database is essential for underpinning a future Environmental Safety Case for the surface, near-surface or deep geological disposal of radioactive waste, as well as to perform a range of sensitivity and scoping calculations in support of ongoing research activities.
Phase 4 of the ThermoChimie project is planned to start in February 2026. The ThermoChimie Phase 4 Framework has the overall objective of providing both specialist and non-technical support resource to the consortium, in the form of a range of desk-based and experimental data generation/selection activities. Outlined activities are in support of the four key project success factors: (i) database traceability, (ii) consistency, (iii) east of use, and (iv) exhaustivity.
ITT documents are available on Atamis: https://atamis-2464.my.site.com/s/Welcome
Commercial tool
Establishes a framework
Total value (estimated)
- £2,500,000 excluding VAT
- £2,500,000 including VAT
Above the relevant threshold
Contract dates (estimated)
- 1 February 2026 to 31 January 2029
- Possible extension to 31 January 2031
- 5 years
Description of possible extension:
+1 +1
Options
The right to additional purchases while the contract is valid.
Two optional yearly extensions following the original three year durations. These options are at NWS discretion.
Main procurement category
Services
CPV classifications
- 73000000 - Research and development services and related consultancy services
Lot constraints
Maximum number of lots a supplier can bid for: 3
Maximum number of lots a supplier can be awarded: 3
Lot 1. Lot 1
Description
Secretariat (One Supplier - Direct Award)
Lot value (estimated)
- £500,000 excluding VAT
- £500,000 including VAT
Framework lot values may be shared with other lots
Same for all lots
CPV classifications, contract dates and options are shown in the Scope section, because they are the same for all lots.
Lot 2. Lot 2
Description
Lot 2 - Database and Website Management / Maintenance (One Supplier - Direct Award)
Lot value (estimated)
- £500,000 excluding VAT
- £500,000 including VAT
Framework lot values may be shared with other lots
Same for all lots
CPV classifications, contract dates and options are shown in the Scope section, because they are the same for all lots.
Lot 3. Lot 3
Description
Lot 3 - Desk Studies: Data Generation, Selection, Assessment and Verification (Multiple Suppliers, Mini Competition)
Lot value (estimated)
- £500,000 excluding VAT
- £500,000 including VAT
Framework lot values may be shared with other lots
Same for all lots
CPV classifications, contract dates and options are shown in the Scope section, because they are the same for all lots.
Lot 4. Lot 4
Description
Lot 4 - Experimental Studies: Data Generation, Model Verification (Multiple Suppliers, Mini Competition)
Lot value (estimated)
- £500,000 excluding VAT
- £500,000 including VAT
Framework lot values may be shared with other lots
Same for all lots
CPV classifications, contract dates and options are shown in the Scope section, because they are the same for all lots.
Framework
Maximum number of suppliers
Unlimited
Maximum percentage fee charged to suppliers
0%
Framework operation description
N/A
Award method when using the framework
Either with or without competition
Contracting authorities that may use the framework
Establishing party only
Submission
Tender submission deadline
16 December 2025, 12:00pm
Submission address and any special instructions
ITT documents are available on Atamis: https://atamis-2464.my.site.com/s/Welcome
Submissions should be made via the Atamis portal.
Tenders may be submitted electronically
Yes
Languages that may be used for submission
English
Award decision date (estimated)
16 January 2026
Award criteria
| Name | Type | Weighting |
|---|---|---|
| Technical | Quality | 70.00% |
| Commercial | Price | 20.00% |
| Social Value | Quality | 10.00% |
Other information
Conflicts assessment prepared/revised
Yes
Procedure
Procedure type
Open procedure
Contracting authority
Nuclear Waste Services Limited
- Public Procurement Organisation Number: PNWB-5846-DYCH
Pelham House, Pelham Drive,
Calderbridge, Seascale
CA20 1DB
United Kingdom
Contact name: Hannah Armstrong
Email: hannah.armstrong@nuclearwasteservices.uk
Website: https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/nuclear-waste-services/about
Region: UKD11 - West Cumbria
Organisation type: Public authority - sub-central government