Greece Pivots To Floating Nuclear Plants: PM Announces Mediterranean Power Strategy At Energy Summit

How does a country with thousands of islands power remote communities without relying on fossil fuels? A new consortium is exploring floating nuclear power plants as a possible answer for Greece and the wider Mediterranean region.

ABS, Core Power, and Athlos Energy have teamed up to study whether floating nuclear power plants, or FNPPs, could work in the Mediterranean Sea. The group wants to bring clean energy to islands, ports, and coastal communities that struggle with reliable power. ABS is leading the research from its Global Ship Systems Center in Athens.

FNPPs use small modular reactors built on floating platforms. These platforms can be assembled in shipyards and towed to where they’re needed. They could support power grids, run desalination plants for drinking water, and help ports operate with zero emissions. ABS released the first comprehensive set of FNPP requirements in 2024.

Built in shipyards and towed to remote shores, floating nuclear platforms could deliver clean power exactly where it is needed most.

The study will use a PESTLE analysis, which examines political, economic, social, technological, legal, and environmental factors. Researchers will develop concepts of operations and assess feasibility with key stakeholders. The team plans to publish an open-access white paper for industry leaders, policymakers, and governments. The consortium will also publish a visual display of prospective FNPP locations across the Mediterranean.

Athlos Energy, founded in September 2024, is the first Greek nuclear industry company. Its co-founders reportedly have expertise in nuclear technology and physics. Co-founder Dionysios Chionis said the study assesses FNPP feasibility in the Aegean Sea as Greece reconsiders nuclear energy’s role.

Core Power, based in London with offices in Washington and Tokyo, is developing its Liberty programme. It targets the FNPP market by the mid-2030s using advanced reactors like molten salt technology. CEO Mikal Bøe said FNPPs could revolutionize how nuclear energy reaches islands and coastal infrastructure. In February, Core Power announced plans to develop a US-anchored maritime civil nuclear programme, with the Liberty initiative also aiming to eventually enable nuclear propulsion for civil ships.

ABS Chairman Christopher J. Wiernicki said small modular reactors on floating platforms offer a viable path toward cutting emissions and improving energy security. The consortium is also working with the Greek Atomic Energy Commission.

Nuclear propulsion discussions recently returned at Posidonia 2026, a major shipping event, as part of broader conversations about decarbonizing the maritime industry. The consortium’s work could help shape clean energy plans across the Mediterranean for years to come.