Is nuclear a genuine decarbonisation option for shipping?

The conversation centers on the growing optimism surrounding nuclear power, particularly small modular reactors (SMRs), as a potential solution for zero-emission shipping. The U.S. government is actively supporting this initiative, having signed a deal with British startup CorePower to develop a framework for nuclear merchant ships. This includes the establishment of specialized nuclear shipyards and the exploration of floating nuclear power, as the U.S. aims to enhance its energy dominance while addressing maritime energy security.

Mikhail Bo, CEO of CorePower, emphasizes the importance of a coordinated government effort to bridge the gaps between the nuclear and maritime industries. He highlights the need for regulatory frameworks and international agreements on civil liability, which currently do not exist for nuclear-powered ships. Despite the challenges, Bo believes that the potential for nuclear technology to revolutionize shipping is significant, particularly in critical trade routes like the Atlantic and Pacific.

However, skepticism remains regarding the feasibility and cost-effectiveness of SMRs. Experts like Professor Stephen Thomas caution that many claims about the advantages of SMRs are unproven, and there is a lack of real-world experience with the technology. The discussion also touches on the need for a robust policy framework and the importance of establishing mutual trust among nations to facilitate the adoption of nuclear shipping.

Overall, while the potential for nuclear technology in shipping is acknowledged, significant hurdles remain in terms of regulatory, economic, and geopolitical factors that must be addressed for successful implementation.

THERE’S been quite a bit more optimism around nuclear power.

There is hope that next-gen small modular reactors made on a shipyard-based assembly line will enable fast, zero-emissions shipping, with far less refuelling.

The US government is getting behind this in a big way.

Its Department of Transport has signed a deal with British start-up Core Power to come up with a framework for nuclear merchant ships, including the potential for specialist nuclear shipyards.

The Port of Houston is looking at floating nuclear power, and the energy department is looking into all sorts of future maritime applications.

None of this is about decarbonisation; energy dominance is the new buzzword.

But there are still big questions about whether nuclear can succeed.

Joining Declan to discuss the viability of nuclear shipping are:

Mikal Bøe, chief executive, Core Power

Farah Bziker, research fellow, University College London

Professor Stephen Thomas, emeritus professor of energy policy, University of Greenwich