Bureau Veritas Marine & Offshore (BV) has contributed to a newly released white paper examining the potential role of nuclear energy in supporting the maritime sector’s decarbonisation.
The extensive study has been conducted by the New Energies Coalition, as part of one of its working groups led by BV, with the valuable contribution of CMA CGM, PSA International, and ONET.
The white paper explores how nuclear power, including emerging small modular reactor (SMR) technologies, could be deployed for marine propulsion, coastal near-shore power generation, and on-land energy production within port premises. It provides a comprehensive assessment of the state of technological readiness, environmental benefits, regulatory landscape, and economic viability — offering a strategic perspective on how this zero-emission energy source could contribute to global carbon neutrality goals.
While underscoring the promise of Generation III+ and IV SMRs, the study highlights the importance of addressing critical challenges such as regulatory harmonisation, fuel cycle management, crew training, cybersecurity, and insurance frameworks. It suggests that early pilot projects and international collaboration will be key to demonstrating feasibility, building public trust, and unlocking investment.
Estimating a plausible timeline pointing to potential commercial deployment of Gen IV nuclear-powered vessels by 2040–2045, with earlier deployments possible for port-based and near-shore installations, the study sets the stage for further research and dialogue across the industry.
Matthieu de Tugny, BV President, said: The white paper reinforces the urgent need for cross-sector collaboration to prepare the path for nuclear energy in maritime, and outlines the milestones and conditions necessary for its responsible implementation over the coming decades. As a member of the New Energies Coalition’s Nuclear Working Group, BV is proud to contribute its technical expertise to this forward-looking analysis, supporting the maritime sector in its search for scalable, sustainable energy solutions.”
The report, The Role of Nuclear in Shipping Decarbonization, can be downloaded here.
