ABS and the Korea Research Institute of Ships & Ocean Engineering (KRISO) have formalised a partnership through a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to explore the potential of small modular reactors (SMRs) within the marine and offshore sectors.
This agreement is set to facilitate information sharing and collaborative research efforts aimed at developing concept designs for both an SMR-powered vessel and a floating SMR power generation platform. A central focus will be on identifying and establishing regulatory guidelines and international standards to govern these innovations.
Regulatory standards and safety requirements
As part of the collaboration, both organisations will work towards setting class-related safety requirements. Christopher J. Wiernicki, Chairman and CEO of ABS, noted the benefits of nuclear energy, highlighting its unmatched energy density, reliability, and strategic independence.
He described nuclear power as a scalable solution that can serve a variety of maritime and offshore applications, such as powering ports, creating hydrogen, and supporting systems like floating data centres and desalination facilities.
ABS's leadership in nuclear power projects
Ryan expressed pride in collaborating with KRISO to advance SMR applications in maritime contexts
Patrick Ryan, ABS's Senior Vice President and Chief Technology Officer, emphasised ABS's ongoing commitment to supporting nuclear power initiatives within the industry.
He remarked on the institution's pioneering role in the development of safety standards and expertise in international regulations. Ryan expressed pride in collaborating with KRISO to advance SMR applications in maritime contexts.
KRISO's focus on marine decarbonisation
According to Keyyong Hong, the President of KRISO, the institute is allocating its research resources toward marine decarbonisation technologies, specifically focusing on the application of SMRs for ships and offshore facilities.
He stated that the partnership's integration of technological expertise and clear role delineation will expedite advancements in core SMR technologies, ensuring excellence in this developing field.
ABS's commitment to nuclear integration
As the marine and offshore industries re-evaluate the role of nuclear energy, ABS continues to play a pivotal role by supporting its safe integration.
Among other nuclear-focused publications, ABS released a study in October 2024 that explored the concept of an SMR-powered LNG carrier, further demonstrating its commitment to nuclear innovation in maritime environments.
