Nuclear Power Plants, the Unique Merits of the Floating Option

Abstract

The biggest threat to the planet is global warming, rising seas, coastal erosion, caused by the burning of fossil fuels including “clean” natural gas. Neither wind or solar is sufficient to limit the 2 ℃ rise necessary to prevent an irreversible catastrophe. Nuclear energy is the only carbon-free energy that can keep the planet from overheating. The irrational fear of nuclear power is receding. Innovative safer nuclear technologies are emerging among them, are small modular reactors (World Nuclear Association, (Updated September 2021) https://www.world-nuclear.org/information-library/nuclear-fuel-cycle/nuclear-power-reactors/small-nuclear-power-reactors.aspx), (SMRs). The author, a mechanical and marine engineer, taps into decades of experience in the design and construction of shipyards and ships and offshore engineering to offer a concept of lagoon-enclosed floating nuclear power plants which addresses cost, security and environmental concerns relating to nuclear power.