The United States Coast Guard Maritime Nuclear Policy Division (CG-ENG-6), in collaboration with the United States Center for Maritime Innovation (USCMI), held a workshop on June 23, 2026 in Washington, DC to explore the future of nuclear power in commercial maritime operations. The session successfully brought together over 150 representatives from across the maritime, energy, and regulatory communities, including shipowners, shipbuilders, technology developers, classification societies, and federal agencies. Participants explored pathways to enable the safe, secure, and commercially viable adoption of nuclear-powered vessels and floating energy platforms.
During the workshop, participants shared their views on overcoming regulatory barriers to facilitate the safe deployment of civilian nuclear maritime technology. Discussions highlighted the complexity of commercial maritime nuclear deployment, including licensing pathways, safety frameworks, operational considerations, and coordination across domestic and international regulatory bodies. Participants emphasized that continued collaboration of the sort demonstrated during the workshop will be critical to enabling innovation while ensuring robust safety and security standards.
The workshop also cemented the USCG’s dedication to interagency coordination with the announcement of a new Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Coast Guard and the Nuclear Regulatory Committee (NRC) that strengthens coordination between the agencies on civilian maritime nuclear projects. This agreement streamlines licensing and safety reviews, clarifies roles and responsibilities, and supports the safe, secure development of emerging nuclear technologies at sea. The MOU can be accessed here: NRC-USCG MOU on Civilian Maritime Nuclear Projects.
The MOU and USCMI workshop are critical steps in the Coast Guard’s execution of America’s Maritime Action Plan and will shape the development of regulatory frameworks that support emerging nuclear technologies. Industry representative and agencies interested in Maritime Nuclear activities are encouraged to reach out to the Maritime Nuclear Policy Division at NuclearPolicy@uscg.mil.