The Future of Nuclear-Powered Shipping and Transportable Nuclear Power Plants

The World Nuclear Transport Institute (WNTI) and the Nuclear Energy Maritime Organisation (NEMO) have recently signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to collaborate on advancing nuclear-powered shipping and transportable nuclear power plants (TNPP).

This partnership aims to establish international standards that prioritize safety, security, and sustainability in the transportation of nuclear and radioactive materials, as well as the utilization of nuclear energy at sea and in remote locations.

Under the MoU, WNTI will focus on the secure transport of nuclear materials and TNPPs, while NEMO will address issues related to nuclear-powered and propelled vessels, including regulation, design, and operations. The collaboration will also extend to working on floating nuclear power plants (FNPP).

The joint efforts of WNTI and NEMO align with WNTI’s upcoming five-year strategy, set to launch later this year, which aims to enhance the global nuclear and radioactive materials transport industry.

“This collaboration is a crucial step towards accelerating clean energy innovation – helping us tackle climate change and deliver on the UN Sustainable Development Goals,” said Pete Bryant, CEO of WNTI.

“The efforts of WNTI and NEMO lay the groundwork for a new era of clean maritime transport,” added Mamdouh El-Shanawany, Chairman of NEMO.

These collaborative efforts come in conjunction with the International Atomic Energy Agency’s (IAEA) ATLAS (Atomic Technologies Licensed for Applications at Sea) program, scheduled to commence later this year. The program aims to assist nations in formulating regulations and guidelines for the transport of small modular reactors (SMR) and the use of nuclear energy at sea.

NEMO, recently granted NGO Consultative Status at the International Maritime Organization (IMO), plays an active role in this initiative.

Nuclear Energy in Maritime Industry towards Net Zero

As the maritime industry moves closer to achieving Net Zero emissions, nuclear energy emerges as a viable low-emission propulsion option for commercial shipping. The high energy density of nuclear power and the potential for nuclear-powered vessels to significantly reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions during operation make it a compelling consideration.

However, challenges such as the lack of robust regulatory frameworks, safety concerns, and public acceptance hinder the widespread adoption of nuclear energy in maritime transport. The New Energies Coalition, initiated by French maritime transport leader CMA CGM, emphasizes the need for close collaboration between industry stakeholders, regulators, and governments to unlock the full potential of nuclear power in future shipping and port operations.

The organization’s report underscores the importance of ramping up efforts over the next decade to meet the ambitious goals set for integrating nuclear energy into maritime operations.