The Nuclear Algorithm

Spoiler alert…It’s Not Your Father’s Nuclear Reactor.

Has anyone else have noticed lately that there is a plethora of announcements regarding studies and concepts looking into the efficacy of nuclear propulsion for commercial shipping? A recent joint study by Lloyds Register (LR), Maersk, CORE POWER, and the Port of Rotterdam assessed the practical and regulatory logistics of letting nuclear-powered commercial ships to dock in Europe. One key finding of the report was that the existing safety and technical frameworks can be adapted to reduce the perceived risk in going small scale nuclear. The report also lays out a roadmap for adaptation by EU ports. LR is also working with Hyundai Heavy Industries on a concept design for a nuclear powered car carrier. ABS and DNV are also devoting time and energy to these types of endeavors.