WASHINGTON, D.C. — The United States will host the Aug. 26-27 launch of an International Atomic Energy Agency initiative aimed at creating an international framework for nuclear-powered ships, floating reactors and other maritime nuclear applications as governments and industry weigh new uses for advanced reactors at sea.
The Atomic Technologies Licensed for Applications at Sea initiative, or ATLAS, is intended to address legal and regulatory barriers to deploying civil nuclear technologies in maritime settings.
The initiative will bring together government ministers, policymakers and industry representatives in Washington to discuss safety, security, safeguards and nonproliferation standards for nuclear technologies used at sea.
The framework is technology-neutral and is expected to cover applications including floating nuclear power plants and civilian nuclear-powered vessels.
U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright positioned the event as part of the administration’s broader effort to expand advanced nuclear development and strengthen the domestic nuclear and maritime industries.
“Hosting the launch of ATLAS supports this critical mission, positioning the U.S. nuclear and maritime sectors at the forefront of advanced energy innovation,” Wright stated.
The Energy Department will also hold an Industry Day on Aug. 25, giving U.S. nuclear and maritime companies an opportunity to present technologies ahead of the ministerial meeting.
The IAEA is focusing particular attention on small modular reactors, which can provide high energy density and operate for long periods without refueling.
IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi argued that those characteristics could make nuclear power more practical for long-distance shipping and offshore energy systems.
“Small modular reactors offer a safe and viable option for maritime transport and offshore energy systems,” Grossi stated.
Floating nuclear power plants could also be used to supply electricity to remote or coastal communities and support activities such as desalination and oil and gas production, according to the initiative.
Proponents also see potential applications in disaster response and recovery where conventional power infrastructure is unavailable or damaged.
The initiative will require coordination among IAEA member states, the International Maritime Organization, port authorities, national regulators, industry and other international bodies.
That coordination will be central to resolving licensing, safety, security and jurisdictional questions that arise when nuclear-powered vessels or floating reactors operate across national and international waters.
The ATLAS launch is scheduled for Aug. 26-27 in Washington, with the industry event preceding it on Aug. 25.
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