Economically competitive, powerful, and resilient – this makes nuclear power a promising technology for the future of maritime propulsion. But there are also significant challenges, Bureau Veritas states in a new report.

Could future freight shipping be powered by uranium? As the pressure on the shipping industry to transition to fossil-free alternatives intensifies, the question is becoming increasingly relevant. But can a technology mostly associated with nuclear submarines, aircraft carriers, and icebreakers really become part of the solution to shipping’s emissions challenges – or does it bring new risks at sea?

In a new report titled The Role of Nuclear in Shipping Decarbonization, Bureau Veritas – alongside industry players such as CMA CGM and PSA Singapore – explores whether small modular reactors (SMRs) could be viable for the maritime sector. The report concludes that SMRs are a “promising” technology that could enable long-term ship operations without the need for frequent refueling stops. The technology is especially suitable for large, long-distance vessels – container ships over 10,000 TEU, cruise ships, the largest LNG carriers, and oil tankers. In these segments, electricity or hydrogen is currently not a realistic option, and nuclear power could be economically advantageous compared to other alternatives, according to Bureau Veritas. Still, the challenges are considerable.

“ The white paper reinforces the urgent need for cross-sector collaboration to prepare the path for nuclear energy in maritime, and outlines the milestones and conditions necessary for its responsible implementation over the coming decades,” says Matthieu de Tugny, president of Bureau Veritas Marine & Offshore.

So, what is required? The report identifies four critical areas that must be further analyzed and developed:

Radioactive waste management:
There is an urgent need to develop comprehensive guidelines for the handling of radioactive waste and spent fuel from small modular reactors (SMRs). This aspect is crucial for the long-term sustainability of nuclear shipping and for public acceptance.

Crew training and qualifications:
Developing specific training programs and qualification requirements for crew members working on nuclear-powered vessels is essential. This ensures safe operation of these advanced technologies and compliance with radiation protection standards.

Cybersecurity:
Given the increasing threat of industrial espionage and cyberattacks, it is vital to integrate robust cybersecurity requirements into the international nuclear safety framework. This is particularly important for protecting nuclear assets in the maritime sector.

Insurance and shared liability:
The current lack of standardized maritime insurance covering the transport of nuclear materials and nuclear-related risks presents a major challenge. Traditional liability frameworks need to be adapted to account for the unique aspects of nuclear-powered shipping, potentially requiring shared responsibility between ship operators, owners, and SMR developers. Likewise, further analysis of financing structures is needed to support the supply chain and technology developers.

Addressing these challenges will require coordinated efforts from industry stakeholders, regulatory bodies, and governments, writes Bureau Veritas. Without a robust framework for safety, liability, and financing, the idea of nuclear-powered ships may sink before it ever leaves the dock. The next ten years will be absolutely crucial, the report concludes. If the development succeeds, nuclear power could play a key role in shipping’s climate transition– not only at sea but also in ports, where emissions are high yet often overlooked.

To the report