Floating Nuclear Power Plants Recognized as Technically Viable in Greece

The Deon Policy Institute has published the first report examining how floating nuclear power plants (FNPPs) can be considered in the political, social, economic, and regulatory context of a European country, using Greece as a case study.

The political conclusions are based on a research program conducted by CORE POWER, Athlos Energy, and ABS. Full results are expected later this year.

Greece has historically refrained from using nuclear energy. However, following the announcement by the Greek Prime Minister that the country will officially begin exploring the role of nuclear energy, a discussion has emerged in public discourse.

The development of new technologies, such as small modular reactors (SMRs), which include enhanced safety features, greater operational flexibility, and savings in construction costs and time, makes nuclear energy increasingly relevant as a low-carbon alternative to traditional energy sources.

Given Greece's long maritime history, the potential for deploying FNPPs deserves attention. FNPPs are also compatible with Greece's geography and energy markets, considering the large number of inhabited islands, the growing need for desalination, and the country's climate goals.

The study highlights several key findings. The political, legal, and regulatory frameworks in Greece currently do not cover nuclear energy or the deployment of FNPPs, reflecting a broader issue in European energy and maritime policy.

No fundamental barriers to implementation were identified, indicating that the issue lies in developing frameworks rather than viability.

Clearer assessments and regulatory pathways are needed, including coordination among maritime, nuclear, and energy authorities. Social acceptance of nuclear energy remains low in Greece, although FNPPs are perceived more positively.

There are no major technical barriers, given the maturity of the technology, but local supply chains and workforce qualifications need to be developed.

"This study shows that FNPPs are not a distant or purely theoretical option for Greece. No fundamental technical or institutional barriers were identified. The real issue lies in creating the political, regulatory, financial, and social foundations necessary for responsible assessment," said Georgios Laskaris, President of the Deon Policy Institute.

"FNPPs create the conditions necessary for scaling up the deployment of safe and reliable nuclear energy supply. Nuclear energy is becoming the only solution that addresses both energy security and greenhouse gas emission reduction issues. We are witnessing a strong momentum for FNPPs, and the role of governments now lies in shaping existing frameworks to facilitate rapid deployment," added Mikal Bø, Founder and CEO of CORE POWER.