STATE OF THE ART AND PROGRESS IN OFFSHORE NUCLEAR POWER PLANT

Decarbonization and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions make low-environmental- impact energy technologies key elements in mitigating the effects of climate change. In this context, nuclear energy represents a valid alternative to renewable sources, thanks to its ability to provide continuous electricity generation with low CO₂ emissions over its life cycle. The possibility of locating nuclear power plants in offshore environments can represent a strategic option to overcome some of the main constraints associated with the construction of onshore plants, such as the limited availability of suitable sites, the high population density of coastal areas, and geological and territorial constraints. Historically, only two offshore nuclear plants have been realized, namely the Sturgis and the Akademik Lomonosov, demonstrating the engineering and economic feasibility of this technology. The various plant configurations are analyzed in this thesis, identifying floating, gravity-based, and submerged structures as the main solutions. The issues associated with these configurations are also discussed, including the layout and placement of the nuclear island, conventional island, and spent fuel pool, as well as the environmental impact and economic feasibility of offshore nuclear power plants.