ABS and the Korea Research Institute of Ships & Ocean Engineering (KRISO) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to cooperate on the application of small modular reactors (SMRs) in the marine and offshore sectors.
The agreement establishes a framework for both organisations to exchange information and engage in joint research projects related to concept designs for an SMR-powered ship and a floating SMR power generation platform. Among the objectives are identifying and developing applicable regulatory guidelines and international standards.
ABS Chairman and CEO Christopher J Wiernicki said: “Nuclear energy offers unmatched energy density, reliability, and strategic independence. It is emerging as a legitimate, practical, and scalable solution for a wide range of strategic uses such as powering ports and producing hydrogen on the shore side and offshore through floating data centres, synthetic fuel platforms and desalination systems.”
Patrick Ryan, ABS SVP and CTO added: “Modern nuclear technologies offer the potential to meet energy demands with a reliable power source in many areas of the marine and offshore markets. ABS is taking a leading role in the support of nuclear power projects in the industry through our knowledge of international regulations and development of Class-related related safety requirements. We are proud to work with KRISO to continue these advancements in SMR applications.”
Keyyong Hong, President, KRISO, said: “Our institute is dedicating its research capacity to the development of marine decarbonisation technologies, with a particular focus on advancing the application of SMRs to ships and offshore plants. Through this MoU, the integration of ABS and KRISO’s leading technological expertise and a well-defined division of roles will accelerate progress in core SMR technologies and secure excellence in this emerging field.”
As the marine and offshore industries refocus on nuclear energy, ABS says it has led the charge in enabling its safe application, having released a study examining a potential SMR-powered LNG carrier in October 2024, and published the ABS Requirements for Nuclear Power Systems for Marine and Offshore Applications.
Image: Patrick Ryan, ABS and Keyyong Hong, KRISO (source: ABS)
