Prospective evaluation of nuclear power potential for shipping (ZEWT Partnership)

¿De qué trata esta convocatoria?

The call funds a coordination and support action that evaluates the technical, economic, safety, environmental and regulatory potential of nuclear propulsion in commercial shipping. It is expected to deliver a research roadmap and guidelines.

¿Qué financia esta convocatoria?

Scope

This Horizon Coordination and Support Action assesses the feasibility, safety and environmental impact of nuclear power, including small modular reactors and other advanced nuclear technologies, for zero-emission commercial shipping. A coordinated effort of industry, research organisations, NGOs and international bodies is expected.

Aspects to address

• Technical feasibility: suitability of nuclear technologies for maritime use, integration with ship designs, and the full life cycle of vessels from construction to decommissioning.
• Economic viability: cost-benefit comparison with conventional and renewable low- and zero-carbon fuels, port infrastructure needs in the EU and full life-cycle costs.
• Safety and security: safety and emergency protocols, cybersecurity, proliferation and port safety, and long-term crew training.
• Environmental impact: emissions across the fuel cycle, nuclear waste management, effects on marine ecosystems and damage scenarios with liability issues.
• Regulatory and legal framework: gaps in international maritime law and nuclear regulations, and recommendations on SOLAS and other treaties.
• A skills development strategy involving social partners and civil society where relevant.

Expected outcomes

A research and innovation roadmap for nuclear power in commercial shipping, a map of regulatory regimes with recommendations, use and damage scenarios, an assessment of total cost of ownership, and safety, training and operational guidelines for nuclear-powered ships.

¿Qué se espera de las propuestas?

• Funded projects are expected to report results to the ZEWT partnership.

¿Cuándo termina el plazo?

14 de abril de 2027 (159 días)

14 April 2027 (single-stage submission). Planned opening date: 15 December 2026.