ABS and US DoE boost maritime nuclear technology

The American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) and the US Department of Energy (DoE) have are teaming up to advance commercial nuclear technology in the maritime sector, including floating power plants and nuclear-powered vessels.

The agreement also covers the development of ports, shipyards and industrial capabilities needed to build, operate and maintain nuclear-powered maritime assets safely.

“Advanced nuclear technology is moving from concept to application, and the maritime industry needs to be ready for it,” said John McDonald, ABS chair and chief executive.

He said the agreement would provide a framework for expanding existing collaboration with the DoE and industry leaders to make nuclear energy a practical option for commercial maritime applications.

Under the memorandum of understanding, the organisations will undertake concept and feasibility studies covering floating nuclear power solutions and nuclear transportation corridors. They will also support the development of a US shipbuilding sector capable of constructing and operating nuclear-powered vessels.

ABS will co-manage the Maritime Nuclear Applications Group, providing technical, regulatory, economic and policy expertise to support studies and assess potential applications. The organisation will also help coordinate work through the US Maritime Administration’s US Center for Maritime Innovation, where ABS serves as Secretariat.

The partnership aims to strengthen coordination across US government agencies and industry as the country explores the requirements for establishing a viable maritime nuclear sector.

“Advanced nuclear technology has the potential to transform the commercial maritime industry and open new markets for American innovation,” said Ted Garrish, assistant secretary for nuclear energy at the DOE.

He said the partnership would draw on decades of experience to explore how next-generation nuclear technologies could be introduced safely into maritime applications.

ABS has already developed classification rules for floating nuclear power plants and granted approvals in principle for several nuclear projects.