ABS and the US Department of Energy’s (DoE) Office of Nuclear Energy have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to advance modern commercial nuclear technology at sea.
The agreement spans floating power solutions, nuclear-powered vessels and the development of the ports, shipyards and industrial base needed to build and sustain them. Key priorities include concept and feasibility studies for floating nuclear power and nuclear transportation corridors, and support for developing a US shipbuilding sector capable of building and operating nuclear-powered assets safely. ABS will coordinate related work through the US Maritime Administration’s (MARAD’s) US Center for Maritime Innovation (USCMI), for which ABS serves as Secretariat.
John McDonald, ABS Chairman and CEO, said: “Advanced nuclear technology is moving from concept to application, and the maritime industry needs to be ready for it. This agreement with DoE reflects the depth of work already underway and provides a framework to go further. Through our collaborations with the DoE and industry leaders, ABS is pioneering the future of nuclear energy in maritime. We’re well-positioned to help turn this technology into a safe, real and practical option for commercial maritime applications.”
DoE is leading US government initiatives on maritime nuclear applications. Under the MoU, ABS will co-manage the Maritime Nuclear Applications Group (MNAG) and provide technical, regulatory, economic and policy support on concept and feasibility studies. ABS will work with DOE to foster interagency coordination to develop a viable US maritime nuclear sector.
Assistant Secretary for Nuclear Energy Ted Garrish said: “Advanced nuclear technology has the potential to transform the commercial maritime industry and open new markets for American innovation. The Department of Energy’s partnership with the American Bureau of Shipping will help explore how we can build on decades of experience to safely bring next-generation nuclear technologies to the maritime sector and position America to lead this emerging industry.”
ABS says it is at the forefront of efforts to bring nuclear energy to maritime applications. It published the industry’s first comprehensive classification rules for floating nuclear power plants and has awarded approvals in principle for a range of nuclear projects.
Image: (L to R) Ted Garrish, United States Assistant Secretary for Nuclear Energy, and John McDonald, ABS Chairman and CEO (source: ABS)
