Greek Islands Could Run on Floating Nuclear Plants by 2035
Greek islands that still run on expensive imported diesel could have a new power option on the horizon. A new study by the Deon Policy Institute, ABS, Core Power, and Athlos Energy found that floating nuclear power plants, built on barges and towed into position, could be operational in Greek waters by 2035 to 2040.
The study targeted non-interconnected islands like those in the Cyclades and Dodecanese, which remain dependent on diesel-fired generators despite Greece's mainland grid becoming a net electricity exporter since 2024. The mainland now generates so much solar power that it actually has to curtail output on sunny days, yet the islands haven't been able to tap into that surplus.
"The real challenge is integrating floating nuclear into existing policy and regulatory frameworks, not the technology itself." — Patrick Ryan, ABS Chief Technology Officer
Floating nuclear plants would be small, modular reactors installed on barges that can be repositioned by towing. According to the study, they could replace oil-fired plants, supply power to seaports being electrified, or serve dedicated data centers. Greece's existing maritime industrial base was cited as a natural advantage for building and operating them.
The researchers concluded that no significant technical hurdles remain. What's left is regulatory work and building public acceptance. Patrick Ryan, ABS Senior Vice President and Chief Technology Officer, said ahead of the Posidonia conference in Athens that the real challenge is integrating floating nuclear into existing policy and regulatory frameworks, not the technology itself.
The study outlined near-term steps including adding nuclear power to Greece's national energy plans and strengthening the legal framework for licensing. Whether the concept advances, the authors noted, will depend on whether political momentum can be converted into lasting institutional commitment.
