Nuclear-powered commercial vessels are a potentially sustainable solution for shipping with the global maritime industry facing “a window of opportunity” as it urgently seeks solutions to achieve its decarbonisation goals, according to a report.

Nuclear-powered vessels could offer higher speeds, greater cargo capacity, up to 20 years without refuelling and zero carbon emissions, says the report by the Deon Policy Institute, a thinktank founded by a group of Greek academics and nuclear industry professionals.

But it warns that challenges remain related to regulation, fuel availability and social acceptance.