- NorthStandard, CORE POWER, and Lloyd’s Register call for UK action to explore nuclear propulsion in commercial shipping to support decarbonization.
- A study will assess safety and regulatory requirements for nuclear-powered container ships to operate in European ports.
- Industry leaders highlight that fourth-generation nuclear reactors could revolutionize maritime transport within 10–15 years.
In August 2024, NorthStandard, CORE POWER, and Lloyd’s Register (LR) issued a joint call for the United Kingdom to take decisive action in advancing maritime nuclear power. This initiative aims to explore the feasibility of integrating fourth-generation nuclear reactors into commercial shipping, positioning the UK as a leader in maritime decarbonization, reports NorthStandard.
UK could lead the world in maritime nuclear
The collaboration focuses on conducting a comprehensive regulatory assessment to determine the safety and operational frameworks necessary for nuclear-powered container ships to operate in European ports. This study will investigate the requirements for updated safety protocols and the establishment of regulatory frameworks to facilitate the adoption of nuclear propulsion in the shipping industry.
Nick Brown, CEO of Lloyd’s Register, emphasized the transformative potential of this initiative, stating that it marks the beginning of an exciting journey towards unlocking the potential of nuclear power in the maritime industry. He highlighted that nuclear propulsion could pave the way for emissions-free operations, more agile service networks, and greater efficiency throughout the supply chain.
Mikal Bøe, CEO of CORE POWER, underscored the necessity of nuclear energy in achieving net-zero emissions. He pointed out that establishing a standards framework for the commercial insurability of floating nuclear power plants and nuclear-powered ships is critical to unlocking the vast potential of nuclear energy in transforming maritime power sources.
Ole Graa Jakobsen, Head of Fleet Technology at A.P. Moller – Maersk, acknowledged the challenges associated with nuclear power, including safety, waste management, and regulatory acceptance. However, he noted that if these challenges can be addressed through the development of new fourth-generation reactor designs, nuclear power could mature into a viable decarbonization pathway for the logistics industry within the next 10 to 15 years.
This initiative aligns with broader industry efforts to explore alternative fuels and propulsion methods to reduce carbon emissions. The maritime sector, responsible for transporting approximately 90% of global trade and accounting for nearly 3% of global carbon dioxide emissions, is under increasing pressure to adopt cleaner energy solutions. The successful integration of nuclear power into commercial shipping could significantly contribute to achieving these environmental objectives.
The collaboration between NorthStandard, CORE POWER, and Lloyd’s Register represents a significant step towards the potential adoption of nuclear propulsion in commercial shipping, with the UK poised to play a pivotal role in this transformative journey.
Did you subscribe to our daily newsletter?
It’s Free! Click here to Subscribe!
Source: NorthStandard
