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Feature

The adoption

of nuclear-powered ships

will require coordinated action

across multiple domains

Spyros Zolotas asserts that adopting nuclear propulsion Credit: EPA/MARTIN DIVI
can significantly aid the maritime industry in achieving
its decarbonisation goals while emphasising the importance
of addressing public concerns around nuclear power.

Can nuclear-powered ships help the while also providing a stable power
industry meet the IMO decarbon- output ideal for long-haul voyages. Of
isation targets by 2050? What course, the technology also presents
are the pros and cons of nuclear challenges: high initial capital costs,
propulsion systems compared to complex safety and regulatory require-
conventional ones? ments, and issues related to public per-
With the total annual fuel consumption ception must all be addressed. These
of ships above 5,000 GT reaching 211 factors make nuclear propulsion a pow-
million tonnes in 2023, according to the erful yet complex tool in the decarbon-
IMO Ship Fuel Consumption Database, isation toolkit.
there is a great opportunity to accelerate
the development of clean technologies. What do you think is required to drive
Advancing these solutions and ensur- the adoption of nuclear-pow-
ing their safe and affordable integration ered ships: technological break-
Opinions expressed by on board will be essential for enabling throughs, regulatory changes, or
Spyros Zolotas, a more sustainable future for shipping. demand from charterers?
Marine Vice President, South Europe Nuclear-powered ships hold consider- Driving the adoption of nuclear-powered
at RINA
able promise in helping the maritime ships will require coordinated action
industry meet the IMO’s 2050 decar- across multiple domains. First and fore-
bonisation targets. Unlike conventional most, regulatory modernisation is essen-
propulsion systems that rely on fossil tial. The current international framework
fuels, nuclear propulsion emits no car- lacks comprehensive and up-to-date
bon dioxide during operation, making guidelines for the safe design, construc-
it a compelling solution for long-term tion, and operation of nuclear-powered
sustainability. The advantages are clear: commercial vessels.
nuclear energy offers unmatched energy Recognising this gap, RINA issued the
density, enabling vessels to operate for “Guide for Nuclear Installation on Board
extended periods without refuelling, of Marine Units” to provide general

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