The Port of Corpus Christi is joining with the federal government to explore nuclear maritime technologies.
The port will cooperate with the U.S. Department of Transportation Maritime Division to “explore the technical, regulatory, and operational requirements for U.S. seaports to deploy floating nuclear power plants and/or accommodate in safe harbor civil vessels powered by nuclear propulsion,” according to a memo to the port commission.
The commission approved a memorandum of cooperation with the division on Aug. 18. This is a voluntary statement of intent and does not include any agreement to fund projects, according to the memo.
According to the memorandum, the port will evaluate the feasibility of accommodating floating nuclear power plants and nuclear-powered commercial vessels, will work with partners to “advance the state of practice and acceptance for the deployment of advanced nuclear technology in the maritime industry,” contribute to the establishment of a port acceptance and inspection regime, and engage with local stakeholders.
The feasibility study, done in collaboration with Core Power Inc., will explore site characterization and suitability, regulatory considerations and grid integration for floating nuclear power plants, as well as safety and security requirements and regulatory considerations for nuclear-propelled vessels. Core Power Inc. is a Delaware corporation.
U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy visited the port on Aug. 19 to sign the agreement, part of a small modular reactor initiative launched in May. U.S. Rep. Michael Cloud attended.
A Department of Transportation news release states that the Port of Corpus Christi is “a major gateway for American energy,” noting petroleum exports and liquefied natural gas shipments.
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“Small modular reactors have the potential to reshape America’s maritime sector, lower shipping costs, and bolster our supply chains,” Duffy said in the news release. “I’m thrilled that the Port of Corpus Christi is embracing this exciting partnership with the Trump Administration to ensure the United States leads the way in innovation. Maritime dominance starts with rebuilding America’s fleet with this state-of-the-art technology.”
