26 Aug 2024
In a significant move for the sector, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), led by Director General, Rafael Mariano Grossi, has launched a dedicated program with the specific aim of facilitating commercial maritime nuclear. A recent first workshop in London, with NEMO in attendence, was recently announced by Grossi on his Twitter/X account, laying the foundations for the IAEA's ground-breaking Atomic Technology Licenced for Applications at Sea (ATLAS) initiative, which is scheduled to begin in earnest in 2025.
As per Grossi's tweets, the objective of ATLAS is to create a strong structure that guarantees the safe and secure implementation of peaceful civil nuclear deployment at sea. This international endeavour will be led, coordinated, and guided by the IAEA, which will make use of its existing guidelines and standards for nuclear safety, security, and safeguards.
Grossi praised the important participation of specialists and thanked Lloyd's Register for hosting the session, emphasising the important function of the International Maritime Organization in maintaining maritime security and safety. According to him, the effort has the potential to spark a wave of nuclear innovation in maritime environments. Watch this space for updates!