ABS and US Department of Energy partner on maritime nuclear technology
The American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) and the US Department of Energy (DOE) have signed a memorandum of understanding to advance the potential use of advanced nuclear technologies across the commercial maritime sector.
The agreement establishes a framework for cooperation on nuclear-powered vessels, floating nuclear power solutions and the infrastructure required to support their development and operation.
It also covers the potential role of US ports, shipyards and industrial facilities in building and maintaining nuclear-powered maritime assets.
Cooperation focuses on feasibility and maritime infrastructure
Under the agreement, ABS and the DOE’s Office of Nuclear Energy will collaborate on concept development and feasibility studies for floating nuclear power systems and nuclear-powered transportation corridors.
The initiative will also examine the technical, regulatory, economic and policy requirements associated with establishing a US maritime nuclear sector.
ABS will co-manage the Maritime Nuclear Applications Group (MNAG) and provide expertise to support the assessment of potential commercial applications.
The classification society will also coordinate related activities through the US Maritime Administration’s US Center for Maritime Innovation (USCMI), where ABS serves as Secretariat.
Safety and regulatory requirements remain central
The cooperation aims to support coordination between government agencies and industry stakeholders as advanced nuclear technologies are evaluated for maritime applications.
Potential uses include vessel propulsion and floating power generation, although the agreement does not announce any specific construction programme or deployment schedule.
ABS has previously developed classification rules for floating nuclear power plants and granted approvals in principle for several nuclear-related projects.
The latest agreement builds on that work by establishing a broader framework for evaluating the practical requirements of nuclear technology in commercial maritime operations.
