Bureau Veritas and more than 30 European companies from the French and international nuclear and maritime sectors have formally signed the Declaration of Cooperation for Accelerating Nuclear for Maritime Applications to meet Climate Ambitions during the World Nuclear Exhibition in Paris, France.
The initiative aims to unite international stakeholders across the nuclear, maritime, research, financial and regulatory communities in a shared commitment to promote a European initiative to advance the safe and sustainable use of nuclear technologies for maritime decarbonization.
The declaration recognizes the critical role of the maritime sector in achieving global climate goals and the need to transition to low-carbon energy systems. It highlights the potential of small modular reactors (SMRs) to become a safe, reliable and sustainable solution for maritime and port energy systems. Together, the signatories reaffirmed their commitment to advancing innovation in line with the France 2030 Investment Plan, which allocates €1bn (US$1.16bn) to the development of innovative nuclear technologies, including SMRs.
The signatories have committed to an ongoing collaborative effort – across industries – to address technological, regulatory and societal challenges, and to identify pilot projects to test and validate nuclear-powered solutions. The declaration also emphasizes transparent communication on nuclear safety to build public understanding and trust.
In addition, the participants will encourage administrations to: develop a robust European ecosystem to facilitate the development of nuclear technologies in maritime operations; strengthen international collaboration with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and the IMO; and call on governments and institutions to provide regulatory clarity, equitable access to climate finance, and harmonized safety standards. Progress will be reviewed annually to ensure transparency and alignment with global climate and energy transition targets.
“This declaration marks an important milestone in aligning nuclear and maritime expertise to accelerate decarbonization and support the long-term sustainability of global shipping,” explained Matthieu de Tugny, executive vice president, industrials and commodities at Bureau Veritas.
“The integration of nuclear technology into maritime operations represents a transformative opportunity, but it must be built on the foundations of safety, transparency and international cooperation. With recognized competences in both the maritime and nuclear sectors, Bureau Veritas is uniquely positioned to help ensure that innovation advances responsibly and sustainably.”
“The role of nuclear energy in the decarbonization of maritime and port environments is emerging with both promise and responsibility,” added Christine Cabau Woehrel, executive vice president, assets and operations, at CMA CGM, and chair of the steering committee of the New Energies Coalition. “By joining forces with Bureau Veritas, Onet, Bessé and our international partners, we are taking an initial yet determined step toward exploring how advanced nuclear technologies – such as SMRs – can contribute safely and sustainably to the energy transition of the maritime sector in the long run. Collaboration, transparency and scientific rigor will guide our path forward for port electrification and maritime decarbonization.”
“This declaration of cooperation emphasizes the need for coordinated international efforts to address the technological, regulatory, societal and financial challenges associated with integrating civil nuclear power into the maritime sector,” agreed Émilie de Lombarès, chairwoman of the executive board at Onet Group.
“Given Onet Group has supported the French nuclear sector for around 50 years, our long-standing presence has given us a unique, hands-on understanding of the industry’s evolution. We are actively supporting several innovative projects for decarbonization, involving SMRs because we think the SMR approach is a new opportunity to re-evaluate the potential of nuclear energy for maritime industry. That is why we joined forces with Bureau Veritas, CMA CGM, Bessé as well as other international partners to invite all stakeholders in the nuclear and maritime sectors to join this collective movement as to build a sustainable, secure and resilient maritime future, showcasing French and European leadership.”
Read E&H Marine’s article on research led by C-Job Naval into the potential of nuclear energy.
