29 Sept 2025
The Nuclear Energy Maritime Organization (NEMO) has welcomed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the United States and the United Kingdom under the Technology Prosperity Deal. This agreement aims to accelerate the development of regulatory, safety, and operational frameworks for maritime nuclear technologies, including floating nuclear power plants and nuclear-powered merchant ships. By leveraging the combined technical expertise, regulatory leadership, and industrial capacity of both nations, the partnership seeks to align international frameworks and ensure maritime nuclear applications proceed with a focus on safety, security, environmental protection, and sustainability.
As part of the next steps, NEMO plans to actively engage with U.S. and U.K. regulators to provide technical input on draft regulations and standards, participate in Ministerial-level Working Groups, and support public-private task forces. The organization will also facilitate joint research initiatives, pilot projects, and workforce training to prepare for the technical challenges of maritime nuclear energy. Additionally, NEMO emphasizes the importance of unified regulatory clarity to reduce uncertainty for insurers, enabling them to underwrite with confidence and support the development of a dedicated nuclear corridor. This comprehensive approach aims to ensure the safe and sustainable integration of nuclear technologies into maritime operations, paving the way for innovation and a greener future in shipping.