Nuclear-powered containerships may be closer to commercial viability than many in the industry assume, offering faster transit times, reduced operating costs and near-zero emissions without relying on expensive green fuels

This is the findings of a new report from Lloyd’s Register (LR) and consultancy LucidCatalyst. Commissioned by Seaspan Corporation, the study examines how small modular reactors (SMRs) could be integrated into large container vessels.

Modelling suggests a 15,000 teu ship running on nuclear power could cut roughly US$50 million in annual bunker fuel costs and sidestep another US$18 million in expected carbon charges