The agreement between the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) – a global maritime classification society – and the Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Nuclear Energy covers 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.
The agreement will see the American Bureau of Shipping co-managing the Maritime Nuclear Applications Group research hub and resource centre, which is aligned with the Department of Energy’s National Reactor Innovation Center, as well as providing technical, regulatory, economic and policy support on concept and feasibility studies. It will coordinate related work through the US Maritime Administration’s US Center for Maritime Innovation.
“Advanced nuclear technology is moving from concept to application, and the maritime industry needs to be ready for it,” said John McDonald, American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) Chairman and CEO. “This agreement with DOE reflects the depth of work already under way 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 memorandum of understanding, the American Bureau of Shipping will co-manage the Maritime Nuclear Applications Group 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.
“Advanced nuclear technology has the potential to transform the commercial maritime industry and open new markets for American innovation,” said Assistant Secretary for Nuclear Energy Ted Garrish. “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.”
