As the global demand for clean energy continues to rise and countries seek alternatives to fossil fuels, nuclear-powered container ships are emerging as a potential solution to reduce emissions in the shipping industry.
In this context, three prominent companies—Lloyd’s Register (LR), CORE POWER, and AP Moller – Maersk—have initiated a study to explore the viability of nuclear-powered container ships, focusing on various factors, including regulatory and operational feasibility.
Exploring Nuclear Power in Container Shipping
The collaborative study will examine the necessary frameworks to implement nuclear power in container shipping, specifically through the use of a fourth-generation reactor. This will involve assessing updated safety regulations and enhancing the understanding of operational and regulatory requirements.
“Since Maersk introduced its energy transition strategy in 2018, we have consistently explored various low-emission energy options for our fleet,” stated Ole Graa Jakobsen, Head of Fleet Technology at A.P. Moller – Maersk. He acknowledged that while nuclear power presents significant challenges—such as safety concerns, waste management, and regulatory acceptance—there is potential for the technology to evolve.
A Decarbonization Pathway for the Future
Jakobsen emphasized that if these challenges can be overcome through advancements in fourth-generation reactor designs, nuclear power could become a viable decarbonization pathway for the logistics industry within the next 10 to 15 years. “We will continue to monitor and evaluate this technology alongside other low-emission solutions,” he added.
The study aims to leverage the expertise of Lloyd’s Register as a trusted advisor in the maritime industry, CORE POWER’s experience in developing advanced nuclear energy technology for maritime applications, and Maersk’s extensive knowledge in shipping and logistics.
Unlocking Nuclear Power’s Potential in Maritime
“The launch of this joint study marks the start of an exciting journey toward realizing the potential of nuclear power in the maritime industry,” said Nick Brown, CEO of Lloyd’s Register. He highlighted that nuclear propulsion could play a crucial role in the industry’s energy transition, contributing to emissions-free operations, more flexible service networks, and enhanced efficiency throughout the supply chain.
Brown also noted the importance of a multi-fuel approach to decarbonizing the maritime industry to meet the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) emission reduction targets.
The Role of Nuclear Power in Achieving Net-Zero
“There’s no net-zero without nuclear,” declared Mikal Bøe, CEO of CORE POWER. He stressed that a standardized framework for the commercial insurability of floating nuclear power plants and nuclear-powered ships is essential for unlocking the full potential of nuclear energy in transforming maritime operations, particularly in nearshore environments, ports, and waterways.
Interest in nuclear-powered shipping is not confined to Europe. In China, the state-run Jiangnan Shipyard has developed a design for a 24,000 TEU megamax containership incorporating Molten Salt Reactor (MSR) technology. According to Logistics Insider, China State Shipbuilding Corporation (CSSC), the parent company of Jiangnan Shipyard, has promoted this ultra-large nuclear container ship as a solution for achieving true zero emissions throughout the vessel’s operating cycle.
