Lead PI: Dr Panagiotis Karvounis, University of Strathclyde

Summary:

NZCLEAR aims to assess the feasibility of small modular reactors (SMRs) to achieve zero-emission commercial shipping and port energy systems. The project methodological steps include the nuclear technology refinement, system modelling and integration, systemic safety assessment, regulatory and security gap analysis, as well as comprehensive environmental-financial analysis to address the key technical, safety, regulatory, security and economic barriers of nuclear maritime applications.

Using real ship and port operational data, NZCLEAR provides quantitative evidence on feasibility, risks, and impact whilst proposing new business models, supporting informed decision-making by industry, regulators, and policymakers and contributing to the transition of the UK and international maritime towards full decarbonisation.