Nuclear-powered shipping can improve vessels’ operational efficiency and cut back on emissions,according to an American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) study picked up by Splash. The study, which modeled the effects of fitting a 14k TEU container vessel and a 157k dwt Suezmax tanker with nuclear propulsion, yielded overwhelmingly positive results in terms of upped container capacity, speeds, and emissions reductions, Splash reported. The addition of four 5 MW, heat-pipe microreactors helped raise operational speeds, and only required refueling once during its 25-year life span. Both concept vessels would emit zero CO2, though the vessel with the four microreactors had decreased cargo capacity, Splash reported.

Despite significant potential, challenges abound: A transition to nuclear propulsion in commercial shipping carries significant challenges in terms of commercializing the technology involved, financial models, and public perceptions, according to a separate Splash report. Entrenched public opinion against widespread applications of nuclear energy is perhaps the most significant hurdle, with the report noting that the public “fears” nuclear power.

Financial models are also a problem: The commercial shipping sector operates in accordance with a widely-accepted arrangement whereby shipowners build, finance, maintain, and operate ships while cargo movers foot the fuel bill. A switch to nuclear power would disrupt this balance as ships would require more resources to build and operate, but would not require refueling during their lifespan, the report notes.

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