Bureau Veritas signs declaration of cooperation to accelerate nuclear for maritime applications
Bureau Veritas (BV) along with more than 30 European companies from the French and international nuclear and maritime sectors, has formally signed the ‘Declaration of Cooperation for Accelerating Nuclear for Maritime Applications to meet Climate Ambitions’ during the World Nuclear Exhibition in Paris. The signing represents a landmark initiative uniting international stakeholders across the nuclear, maritime, research, financial and regulatory communities in a shared commitment to promote a European initiative to advance the safe and sustainable use of nuclear technologies for maritime decarbonisation.
The declaration recognises the critical role of the maritime sector in achieving global climate goals and the need to transition to low-carbon energy systems. It highlights the potential of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) to become a safe, reliable, and sustainable solution for maritime and port energy systems. Together, the signatories (pictured) reaffirmed their commitment to advancing innovation in line with the France 2030 Investment Plan, which allocates €1 billion to the development of innovative nuclear technologies, including SMRs.
The signatories have committed to an ongoing collaborative effort – across industries – to address technological, regulatory, and societal challenges, and to identify pilot projects to test and validate nuclear-powered solutions. The declaration also emphasises transparent communication on nuclear safety to build public understanding and trust.
In addition, the participants encourage Administrations to develop a robust European ecosystem that will facilitate the development of nuclear technologies in maritime operations; to strengthen international collaboration with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and the IMO; and to call on governments and institutions to provide regulatory clarity, equitable access to climate finance, and harmonised safety standards. Progress will be reviewed annually to ensure transparency and alignment with global climate and energy transition targets.
Matthieu de Tugny, Executive Vice President, Industrials and Commodities at Bureau Veritas, said: “This declaration marks an important milestone in aligning nuclear and maritime expertise to accelerate decarbonisation and support the long-term sustainability of global shipping. The integration of nuclear technology into maritime operations represents a transformative opportunity, but it must be built on the foundations of safety, transparency, and international cooperation. With recognised competences in both the maritime and nuclear sectors, Bureau Veritas is uniquely positioned to help ensure that innovation advances responsibly and sustainably.”
Christine Cabau Woehrel, Executive Vice President Assets & Operations at CMA CGM, and Chair of the Steering Committee of the New Energies Coalition, declared: “The role of nuclear energy in the decarbonisation of maritime and port environments is emerging with both promise and responsibility. By joining forces with Bureau Veritas, Onet, Bessé and our international partners, we are taking an initial yet determined step toward exploring how advanced nuclear technologies — such as SMRs — can contribute safely and sustainably to the energy transition of the maritime sector in the long run. Collaboration, transparency, and scientific rigor will guide our path forward for port electrification and maritime decarbonisation."