US Plans to Deploy Nuclear Reactors on Continental Shelf

The United States announced on Wednesday that it has developed a "clear framework" to facilitate the future deployment of floating nuclear reactors, aligning with the Trump administration's efforts to increase nuclear energy production.

Floating nuclear power plants have been attracting growing interest globally, with Russia currently the only country operating such a facility, the "Akademik Lomonosov," located in the country's far east.

The US Department of the Interior's Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) revealed it signed a memorandum of understanding with the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) to advance the deployment of reactors on the outer continental shelf. This area covers 3.2 billion acres off the US coast and falls under federal jurisdiction.

Acting BOEM Director Matt Giacona stated, "For decades, submerged reactor systems have been safely used on military vessels and installations, demonstrating their capability to provide a reliable energy source in challenging marine environments."

Giacona added in a statement that "this technology could significantly enhance US energy security in the future."

Jeremy Bowen, Director of the NRC's Office of Advanced Reactors, said the agreement establishes a "clear framework" for collaboration between the two agencies, offering clarity and confidence to any prospective applicants. He noted that this cooperation supports the safe and effective deployment of emerging nuclear technologies.

Nuclear power has long been utilized in warships, submarines, and icebreakers. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) highlights the growing global interest in its potential to reduce carbon emissions in the energy sector.

However, this objective is not a priority for the Trump administration, which has sought to halt offshore wind energy projects.

The IAEA notes that Canada, China, Denmark, South Korea, Russia, and the United States are developing designs for small floating nuclear reactors.

The Trump administration aims to quadruple nuclear energy production by 2050. Nonetheless, the announcement has raised concerns among environmental advocates.

Nick Katkavich, Ocean Protection Campaign Manager at the Center for Biological Diversity, criticized the plan, stating, "The Trump administration seems to have an endless supply of bad ideas for dealing with marine life, and among the worst is placing nuclear reactors on old, corroded oil platforms."

Separately, France has shut down three nuclear reactors and restricted the operation of eight others due to river temperature increases.