Lloyd’s Register (LR) has released a new guidance document, Navigating Nuclear Energy in Maritime, outlining how nuclear technology could be safely introduced into commercial shipping and offshore industries.
Developed with Global Nuclear Security Partners (GNSP) and marine insurer NorthStandard, the publication provides a framework covering regulatory, technical, operational and financial requirements for deploying nuclear systems, including small modular reactors (SMRs), on ships.
The guidance emphasises the need for international coordination between the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to harmonise safety and regulatory standards.
It also explores environmental impact assessments, safety classification, structural integrity, and security measures such as cyber and physical protection.
Operational factors including crew training, emergency preparedness and insurance challenges are addressed, with NorthStandard contributing insights on liability frameworks and the interaction between classification and insurance.
“Nuclear energy has the potential to transform maritime, providing a scalable and zero-carbon source that can accelerate the industry’s energy transition,” said Mark Tipping, LR’s Global Power to X Director.
LR said the document builds on its Fuel for Thought: Nuclear research and aims to guide project teams as they navigate the regulatory and technical complexities of nuclear-powered shipping.
