Greece: A new study suggests that floating nuclear power plants could offer a potential solution for Greece’s remote islands, many of which still rely on diesel generators despite the country’s growing renewable energy surplus on the mainland.
While Greece has become a net electricity exporter thanks to strong solar output, several non-interconnected islands in the Cyclades and Dodecanese continue to depend entirely on diesel-fired power stations. These systems require constant fuel deliveries by tanker, as renewable integration remains limited by intermittency and the high cost of undersea grid connections.
The study highlights floating nuclear power plants as a possible alternative. These systems are based on small modular reactors installed on barges that can be towed and moored near demand centres. They require far less land-based infrastructure than conventional nuclear plants and can be sized for smaller or variable electricity needs, making them suitable for island grids.
According to the report, the technology is already considered mature and could also support other applications such as powering ports, data centres, and isolated industrial sites. Greece’s maritime sector, including its shipbuilding and engineering base, is seen as a potential advantage for future deployment.
The study was carried out by the Deon Policy Institute, classification society ABS, nuclear company Core Power, and Greek energy firm Athlos Energy.
However, the main challenges are not technical. The report points to regulatory frameworks and public acceptance as the key barriers. Nuclear power would need to be formally included in national energy planning, and new safety and licensing systems would have to be developed.
Researchers estimate that deployment could be possible between 2035 and 2040, provided policy development begins soon and progresses in parallel with regulatory and public engagement efforts.
Source: Energies Media
