Prospective evaluation of nuclear power potential for shipping (ZEWT Partnership)
Funds a detailed assessment of nuclear power’s feasibility, safety, and environmental impact for zero-emission commercial shipping to inform EU policy and technology roadmaps.
Funder: European Commission
Due Dates: April 14, 2027
Funding Amounts: Lump sum grant, around €2,000,000 total; 1 project expected to be funded; 100% funding rate for eligible costs.
Summary: Funds a comprehensive assessment of the feasibility, safety, and environmental impact of deploying nuclear power (including SMRs) in commercial shipping, to inform EU policy and technology roadmaps for zero-emission waterborne transport.
Key Information: Single-stage, lump sum Horizon-CSA; proposals must address technical, economic, regulatory, and environmental aspects.
Description
This Horizon Europe Coordination and Support Action (CSA) supports a detailed prospective evaluation of the potential for nuclear power—including small modular reactors (SMRs) and advanced nuclear technologies—in commercial shipping. The initiative aims to inform EU policy and industrial strategies for zero-emission waterborne transport (ZEWT) by:
- Drafting a research and innovation roadmap for nuclear-powered shipping,
- Mapping and analyzing regulatory regimes at national, regional, and international levels,
- Assessing technical feasibility, economic viability, safety, security, and environmental impacts,
- Developing operational, safety, and training guidelines,
- Evaluating implications for national energy and environmental policies,
- Creating scenarios and cost assessments, and
- Engaging stakeholders including industry, research organizations, NGOs, and international bodies.
The funded project is expected to strengthen EU research and innovation capacity, safeguard critical know-how, develop skilled human capital, and support the resilience of the EU’s industrial base in zero-emission shipping.
