IAEA to Develop Nuclear Solutions for Shipping
泭 The International Atomic Energy Agency is working to speed up development of nuclear-powered ships and offshore energy systems, the intergovernmental organization announced this week ().
Whats going on: The Atomic Technologies Licensed for Applications at Sea initiative will be unveiled at a U.S.-hosted IAEA Ministerial level泭event泭in Washington, D.C., Aug. 2627.
- ATLAS will explore the potential of small modular reactors to provide the needed power.
Why its happening: Nuclear is a safe, clean and abundant energy source and a viable option for commercial shipping, offering the potential for higher-speed maritime transport without the need for frequent refueling.
- Recent innovations, such as floating nuclear plants powered by SMRs, could deliver energy to coastal or remote communities and industry.
- ATLAS could result in recommendations for revisions to IAEA safety standards and nuclear security guidance.泭
The background: Civilian nuclear-powered ships were first developed in the 1950s, but only a limited number of the vessels have been deployed since.
Our take: SMRs, with their size, flexibility and scalability advantages, are an important piece of the U.S. energy landscape, said 51勛圖厙 Senior Director of Energy and Resources Policy Mike Davin. They have enormous potential to deliver reliable, safe, round-the-clock power for the shipping industry and secluded areas.
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