Corpus Christi and Core Power to Study Maritime Nuclear Energy

Core Power and the Port of Corpus Christi Authority (PCCA) have signed a Memorandum of Collaboration establishing a framework for a maritime nuclear readiness study specific to the Port of Corpus Christi.

The study will examine how a major U.S. energy and commercial port could prepare for two distinct future roles: as a potential location for a floating nuclear power plant (FNPP) to supply firm power for port and regional demand, and as a gateway for future calls by nuclear-powered commercial vessels.

Jeff Pollack, Chief Strategy and Innovation Officer for the Port of Corpus Christi Authority, said that "the Port of Corpus Christi, as North America's leading energy gateway, is committed to remaining a leader in the global energy market, even as it expands and evolves. This collaboration will help us understand what would be technically, environmentally, operationally, and commercially required for floating nuclear power plants and future calls by nuclear-powered commercial vessels to be considered in the real-world context of the Port. It's about gathering information and maintaining our region's competitiveness for future high-value investments, industry, and jobs."

For Core Power, the study will define the practical requirements of its two product lines within a real port operating environment. Nuclear power plants require suitable sites, grid connections, customers, regulations and environmental regulations, operational agreements, and long-term technical support.

Nuclear-powered commercial vessels require safe and predictable routes for transit, docking, and routine port operations. The Port of Corpus Christi offers the opportunity to evaluate both product lines separately, while also understanding the shared infrastructure, safety, regulatory, and commercial issues.

Furthermore, PCCA commissioners agreed to sign a Memorandum of Cooperation with the U.S. Department of Transportation's Maritime Administration to examine the technical, regulatory, and operational requirements that U.S. seaports must meet to support the potential deployment of floating nuclear power plants and provide a safe harbor for civilian nuclear-powered vessels.