Mikal Bøe speaking at the Houston event

Core Power of the UK has unveiled plans to develop a "US-anchored" maritime civil nuclear programme aimed at bringing floating nuclear power to market by the mid-2030s. The Liberty programme, launched at a summit in Houston, Texas, will pave the way for the use of nuclear power in the civil maritime sector. It involves modular construction of advanced fission technology and the creation of regulatory and supply chain frameworks for global rollout.

The first phase of the Liberty programme will focus on mass producing floating nuclear power plants (FNPPs) in shipyards using established shipbuilding processes. These FNPPs can be moored at ports and coastal locations or anchored further offshore. A central yard will handle commissioning, maintenance, refuelling, and waste management. The programme aims to open the order book for FNPPs in 2028 and achieve full commercialisation by the mid-2030s.

The second phase will concentrate on developing the supply chain and workforce, while the third phase will involve creating business operation models and establishing a manufacturing base. Core Power also plans to collaborate with international organizations to develop safety and security standards for nuclear-powered ships.

The Liberty programme seeks to unlock a floating power market worth $2.6 trillion and deliver nuclear-powered shipyard construction on time and within budget. By reaching new markets, it aims to provide resilient energy security for heavy industry and ocean transport, revolutionizing the maritime sector and transforming global trade.

In addition, Core Power has signed an agreement with Mitsubishi Research Institute to study market conditions for a maritime civil nuclear programme in Japan. The Liberty programme will establish a robust regulatory framework and supply chains, including fuel and highly trained personnel, to enable advanced nuclear reactors to function.