Title: Corpus Christi joins US maritime nuclear push

URL Source: https://splash247.com/corpus-christi-joins-us-maritime-nuclear-push/

Published Time: 2026-08-19T20:50:34+00:00

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 Port of Corpus Christi 

The Port of Corpus Christi has become the latest US port to sign up to Washington’s push to develop small modular reactor technology for maritime applications.

US transportation secretary Sean Duffy joined Maritime Administrator Stephen Carmel and Texas congressman Michael Cloud to unveil a new agreement aimed at exploring the use of SMRs across port operations, shoreside power and future vessel propulsion.

The memorandum of cooperation between the Maritime Administration and Corpus Christi will examine resilient port microgrids, shore power architecture, infrastructure for emerging propulsion technologies and associated workforce development.

Duffy said SMRs could lower shipping costs, strengthen supply chains and support efforts to rebuild the US merchant fleet.

Corpus Christi is one of America’s most important energy gateways, handling large volumes of petroleum and LNG exports, making it a natural testing ground for new maritime energy systems.

The agreement is the second signed since the Department of Transportation launched its maritime SMR initiative in May.

In June, the administration signed a separate agreement with the Port of Long Beach to establish what it described as the country’s first testing area for nuclear-powered vessels.

Washington is increasingly positioning advanced nuclear technology as part of a broader effort to revive domestic shipbuilding and maritime competitiveness.

The Corpus Christi partnership will initially focus on feasibility, infrastructure requirements and potential commercial applications rather than immediate deployment of nuclear-powered ships.

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