A new industry report says nuclear-powered container ships could save operators up to $68 million per year by removing fuel and carbon costs.
The study was carried out by Lloyd’s Register and LucidCatalyst for Seaspan and looked at using small modular reactors (SMRs) to power large container vessels.
According to the report, a 15,000 TEU nuclear-powered container ship could sail faster than conventional vessels and make more voyages each year. Removing fuel tanks could also create more space for containers.
The reactors could run for around five years without refuelling, reducing downtime and removing the need for bunker fuel.
The report says nuclear-powered container ships could be commercially ready within a few years if development moves quickly, but regulatory approval and safety frameworks still need to be developed.
“The energy transition and long-term sustainability challenges of shipping demands long-term solutions that can scale. Nuclear propulsion offers not just a decarbonised solution, but a transformative economic opportunity for shipowners and charterers alike,” said Meg Dowling, Senior Engineer – Nuclear Technology and Alternative Fuels of Lloyd’s Register.
