July 15, 2025
The Nuclear Energy Maritime Organization (NEMO) has officially been granted NGO Consultative Status at the International Maritime Organization (IMO), and has been formally invited to regularly attend the sessions of the General Conference of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).
As a formally recognized NGO, NEMO will contribute to global discussions and policy development at the highest levels of international governance at IAEA and IMO. This status enables NEMO to provide expert insights, technical guidance, and strategic recommendations on the integration of nuclear technologies in shipping, offshore energy systems, and floating nuclear power plants.
As interest in nuclear propulsion grows, IMO is beginning to take concrete steps to support this transition. At its 110th session, the IMO’s Maritime Safety Committee (MSC 110) heard proposals from several Member States and NGOs calling for a revision of the Code of Safety for Nuclear Merchant Ships and relevant parts of the SOLAS Convention. In response, a working group within MSC 110 prepared instructions for relevant sub-committees to initiate the revision process. On 26 June, MSC 110 formally tasked the Sub-Committee on Ship Design and Construction (SDC) with this responsibility, requesting that the work begin at the SDC’s next session if possible.
NEMO is expected to actively participate in IAEA’s ATLAS initiative. ATLAS (Atomic Technologies Licensed for Applications at Sea) is due to launch later in 2025 and is the Agency’s international program supporting the development of regulatory frameworks for nuclear energy at sea. NEMO will contribute with technical expertise and strategic insight into each of ATLAS’ Implementation Groups to shape the future of maritime nuclear deployment.
This major milestone reflects the growing importance of nuclear innovation in the maritime sphere for achieving global decarbonization and energy security goals. We are honoured to collaborate with the IMO and IAEA to help shape the future of clean maritime energy and ensure that nuclear solutions are deployed safely, securely and effectively across international waters
… said Dr. Mamdouh El-Shanawany, Chairman of NEMO.
NEMO’s consultative role will support the development of regulatory frameworks, safety standards, and best practices for commercial nuclear propulsion and mobile nuclear energy systems.
Established by HD Hyundai Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering (KSOE) in March 2024, the organization’s focus remains on bridging the gap between existing regulations for both the nuclear and maritime industries. The multifaceted approach includes:
- Nuclear Regulation: Collaborating with Nuclear Regulators and key stakeholders to ensure the development of a robust and appropriate set of standards for nuclear energy in the marine environment.
- Maritime Regulation: Working with Maritime Regulators, Class Societies, and Insurers to tailor current standards, allowing floating nuclear power to operate seamlessly at sea, offshore, in ports, and in nearshore environments.
- Outreach: NEMO is dedicated to informing and educating stakeholders about the challenges, benefits, and opportunities presented by floating nuclear power in decarbonizing heavy industry and transport.
