Nuclear propulsion viable for low carbon commercial shipping: DNV

Sector eyes 40 year comeback for nuclear power as SMRs offer carbon free alternative

Nuclear propulsion could become a long-term option for cutting carbon emissions from commercial shipping, according to a recent industry report by Det Norske Veritas (DNV) on maritime nuclear technology.

The study looked into whether modern nuclear systems, particularly small modular reactors (SMRs), could be used on merchant vessels as the sector works toward net-zero targets.

Nuclear-powered ships produce no carbon emissions during operation and can run for long periods without refuelling, DNV said.

Renewed interest is driven by tighter regulation, uncertainty with alternative fuels, and advances in reactor design, it added.

Nuclear propulsion is not new to shipping, with several civilian vessels built in the 1950s and 1960s.

High costs, regulatory barriers and public concern over safety prevented wider adoption with no commercial nuclear-powered ships commissioned in more than four decades.

SMRs are smaller than conventional nuclear reactors and are designed to be factory-built, standardised and integrated into ship designs.

Major obstacles remain, the DNV said. International regulations for nuclear-powered commercial ships are limited. Responsibility would likely be shared between the International Maritime Organization and the International Atomic Energy Agency.

Port access, fuel handling, waste management and crew training standards would also need to be established.

Cost remains another challenge. Nuclear systems require high upfront investment, though DNV’s analysis suggests they could become competitive if carbon pricing rises and low-carbon marine fuels remain expensive.

Development activity is already underway. DNV has issued an approval in principle for a 15,000-TEU container ship concept powered by a small modular reactor, developed with HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering.

DNV does not expect nuclear propulsion to be adopted in the near term but says it could become part of the shipping industry’s energy mix after 2040 if regulatory frameworks are created and commercial viability improves.