WNTI and NEMO Sign MoU to Advance Nuclear-Powered Shipping and Mobile Nuclear Energy Solutions

The World Nuclear Transport Institute (WNTI) and the Nuclear Energy Maritime Organisation (NEMO) have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on the advancement of nuclear-powered shipping and the deployment of transportable nuclear power plants. The agreement arrives at a strategic moment for the global nuclear sector. Later this year, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) is set to launch the ATLAS initiative, a program intended to help countries establish regulatory frameworks and guidance for the safe transport of small modular reactors (SMRs) and the use of nuclear technology at sea. Under this new partnership, WNTI and NEMO will align their expertise and industry knowledge to support the development of internationally recognised standards for safety, security and environmental responsibility in maritime nuclear applications. Building on Decades of Expertise For over sixty years, the global transport of nuclear and radioactive materials has been conducted with a strong safety record. Today, that experience is being directed toward broader environmental and energy goals, including the fight against climate change and the pursuit of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. According to figures from the International Maritime Organization (IMO), the shipping industry accounts for around 2.9 percent of total global carbon emissions. Civil nuclear propulsion, which replaces traditional fossil-fuel engines with compact, emission-free reactors, is being promoted as a viable solution to decarbonise maritime transport. In parallel, transportable nuclear power plants (TNPPs) offer the potential to supply clean and reliable energy to remote or energy-insecure regions. Delivered by sea or land, these mobile units can generate electricity and, in some configurations, high-temperature steam or heat. Their applications extend beyond power supply, with capabilities including green hydrogen production and large-scale seawater desalination—supporting energy and water resilience in regions facing acute infrastructure challenges. Defining Roles for Joint Impact Through the MoU, the two organisations have outlined clear areas of responsibility. WNTI will focus on the safe and secure transport of nuclear materials, including TNPPs, drawing on its longstanding experience in international logistics for radioactive substances. NEMO will take the lead on matters related to the design, regulation and operation of nuclear-powered vessels. For projects involving floating nuclear power plants, both entities will work in tandem. The collaboration also contributes to WNTI’s upcoming five-year strategy, which places emphasis on delivery, global partnerships and strengthening the international nuclear transport community. Concurrently, NEMO is expanding its efforts to ensure the secure integration of nuclear-powered vessels and mobile reactors into global energy markets. Leadership Statements Commenting on the MoU, WNTI Chief Executive Officer Professor Pete Bryant said the agreement exemplifies the institute’s approach of translating strategic priorities into concrete initiatives. “We are pleased to partner with NEMO to help shape international standards for mobile nuclear energy solutions and the wider use of nuclear technologies in maritime applications. This partnership marks an important step toward accelerating clean energy innovation and contributing to global climate and development goals,” Bryant said. Dr Mamdouh El-Shanawany, Chairman of NEMO, called the agreement a milestone in advancing nuclear energy for maritime and off-grid applications. “By combining our expertise, we are building a foundation for the safe and sustainable use of nuclear technology in shipping and energy delivery. This collaboration will play a key role in setting international standards that ensure public safety, energy security and environmental protection,” he said. As the global community looks to diversify low-carbon energy sources and reduce dependence on fossil fuels, the joint efforts of WNTI and NEMO aim to unlock new opportunities for nuclear innovation in both maritime mobility and remote power generation. Tags: NEMO, Nuclear energy, Shipping, WNTI