The Nuclear Energy Maritime Organization (NEMO), which focuses on nuclear propulsion technologies, aims to strengthen its voice and has brought a former British Member of Parliament on board.
The board of the organization, which was founded in 2024, has announced that Virginia Crosbie from the UK will be the new Managing Director with effect from 12 January. Crosbie is therefore likely to become a second important voice for Nemo alongside Chairman Mamdouh El-Shanawany, as the position did not previously exist.
Nemo has developed into a highly respected player in the shipping lobby in a relatively short space of time. It promotes the use of nuclear technologies in shipping. It currently represents 34 members – including various classification societies, shipowners, ship managers and insurance companies. Last year, the organization was even granted NGO consultant status by the International Maritime Organization (IMO). The official goal is to create a harmonized legal framework that will enable commercial floating nuclear power activities by 2030 (see also HANSA 10/2024).
Crosbie is to “focus on strengthening operational processes, expanding the membership base and partnerships, and ensuring that Nemo’s working groups and networking activities lead to concrete results and visible impacts”, according to the announcement.
Crosbie was a Member of the UK Parliament from 2019 to 2024, where she chaired the Nuclear Delivery Group and chaired the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Small Modular Reactors. She is currently Chair of SONE (Supporters of Nuclear Energy) and a board member of the Nuclear Institute. The new Managing Director has some experience in public service and the nuclear sector. In addition, she has “a proven track record of connecting industry, policymakers and stakeholders to promote clean and safe energy”, Nemo continues. Her appointment comes at a crucial time for the organization as it looks to further develop its international profile.
