The UK has launched the Maritime Nuclear Consortium, led by Lloyd’s Register (LR), to develop global standards for the safe and commercially viable use of nuclear power in shipping.
Bringing together expertise from the nuclear, maritime, insurance and regulatory sectors, the consortium will focus on advanced modular reactors (AMRs), which could allow vessels to operate for years without refuelling and without CO2 emissions.
The aim is to adapt established naval nuclear technologies for commercial shipping, covering certification, security, regulation and insurability.
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Nick Brown, CEO of Lloyd’s Register, said: “Decarbonisation demands cleaner power, higher standards and a duty to the generations that follow. Nuclear is ready to meet that test.
“If the UK leads on global standards, nuclear will mean more than zero-carbon ships. It will mean work in British shipyards, new business in the City, and lasting jobs for those who build, insure and sail the world’s fleet.”
Rolls-Royce also highlighted the strategic importance of collaboration.
Jake Thompson, Director of Advanced Modular Reactors, stated: “We believe that the multi-sector collaboration from the Nuclear Maritime Consortium is a critical first step in the UK leading the development of the future international code for nuclear-powered vessels.”
For more information:
Lloyd’s Register (LR) – https://www.lr.org/en/
