In The Netherlands, Offshore Energy reported Norway’s NuProShip project concluded its first phase on December 31, 2024, advancing research into zero-emission nuclear propulsion technologies for deep-sea shipping by evaluating three reactor concepts from the United States and Sweden. Led by shipbuilder VARD, the project also includes DNV, the Norwegian University of Science and Technology in Ålesund, the Norwegian Maritime Administration, Knutsen Tankers, and Spanish nuclear consultancy IDOM.
The reactors selected for development are Kairos Power’s molten salt reactor, Ultrasafe’s helium-cooled gas reactor, and Sweden’s Blykalla lead-cooled reactor. These designs utilize advanced TRISO fuel particles, recognized for their durability and safety, and were chosen after an assessment of 99 reactor technologies.
NuProShip II, starting in 2025, will focus on refining the chosen reactors, developing a prototype, and expanding the consortium to include insurers to address financial and regulatory challenges. A third phase will test the prototype in operational conditions.
This research aligns with growing interest in small modular reactors for shipping. A 2024 report by Lloyd’s Register emphasized their potential for commercial maritime applications, citing SMRs’ proven use in naval vessels and suitability for low-maintenance energy needs.
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Tags: Norway, Nuclear propulsion, small modular rector
Category: Sustainable Marine Fuels
