UK-based maritime nuclear technology company Core Power and the Port of Corpus Christi Authority (PCCA) have signed a memorandum of collaboration establishing a framework for a site-specific maritime nuclear readiness study at the Port of Corpus Christi in the US state of Texas.

The study will examine how a major US energy and trade gateway such as Corpus Christi, leading US port in petroleum exports and a leader in LNG exports. could prepare to be a potential location for a floating nuclear power plant (FNPP) and a destination for nuclear-powered commercial ships.

The proposed work covers both pathways. An FNPP is a ship-based power station designed to supply electricity to a coastal customer or grid. A nuclear-powered commercial ship uses a reactor as its onboard energy source for propulsion and ship services.