Article 2 Tasks and activities
United Kingdom
The task of the Organisation is to construct a high-intensity slow neutron source as described in the ESS Technical Design Report, an executive summary based on the ESS Technical Design Report dated 22 April 2013 which is attached as Annex 1, to a cost not exceeding EUR 1 843 million in January 2013 prices and to further operate, develop and decommission the facility. The construction costs are laid down in a cost book dated 13 March 2013 at 2013 prices that covers the overall expenditure. This cost book is the reference document for the members' contributions in cash and in kind.
To this end the Organisation shall undertake and coordinate a variety of activities, including but not limited to:
contribute to top-level research, technological development, innovation and societal challenges thus representing an added value for the development of the European Research Area (ERA) and beyond;
ensure a full scientific exploitation of the ESS and its suite of instruments;
grant effective access to users in accordance with the access policy set out in Article 17;
contribute to the dissemination of scientific results;
make optimum use of resources and know-how;
and any other related action necessary to achieve its task.
The Organisation shall construct and operate ESS on a non-economic basis. In order to further promote innovation as well as transfer of knowledge and technology, limited economic activities may be carried out as long as they do not jeopardise the main activities. Income from these activities shall be used in accordance with the Organisation's task.
The Organisation shall undertake activities for peaceful ends only.