Core Power. FIle Image. Image Credit: Core Power

• Core Power and Port of Corpus Christi Authority sign Memorandum of Collaboration
• Study to assess port as site for a floating nuclear power plant
• Port calls by nuclear-powered commercial ships also under review
• Port separately agrees cooperation deal with US Maritime Administration

UK-based maritime nuclear developer Core Power has signed a Memorandum of Collaboration with the Port of Corpus Christi Authority to study the Texas port's readiness for nuclear technology.

The agreement sets a framework for a site-specific maritime nuclear readiness study at the port, the company said in an emailed statement on Wednesday.

The study will examine two potential roles for the port: as a location for a floating nuclear power plant supplying firm power to the port and surrounding region, and as a gateway for future calls by nuclear-powered commercial ships.

Core Power says the work will build out the practical requirements of both pathways in a port operating environment, from grid connections and regulatory approvals for power plants to safe transit and berthing arrangements for nuclear-powered vessels.

Separately, the port authority's commissioners have agreed to sign a Memorandum of Cooperation with the US Department of Transportation's Maritime Administration, examining what American seaports would need to support floating nuclear plants and provide safe harbour for civil nuclear-powered vessels.

Core Power says the two agreements together mark a step towards translating maritime nuclear technology into practical readiness requirements for US ports.

The company has previously said it aims to bring floating nuclear power to market in the US by the mid-2030s through its Liberty programme.