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ABB has bolstered its partnership with Swedish nuclear innovator Blykalla through a new memorandum of understanding aimed at promoting the deployment of small modular lead-cooled reactors (SMRs) in the maritime industry. This agreement builds upon a prior arrangement made in late 2024, which focused on developing Blykalla's SMR technology for Sweden's energy grid. The extension of this collaboration to maritime applications comes at a time when interest in nuclear propulsion is surging, as companies seek sustainable solutions to meet energy demands in the shipping sector.

Blykalla's Swedish Advanced Lead Reactor, known as Sealer, stands at the forefront of this initiative. This compact reactor, designed for passive safety and minimal operator intervention, has been recognized as one of three viable options for large vessels under the NUPROSHIP I project, which explores the adaptation of Generation IV SMRs for maritime use. The potential of these reactors to drive decarbonization is significant, as they promise to enable innovative ship designs that can greatly reduce emissions compared to traditional carbon-based fuel systems.

ABB's expertise in system integration, power distribution, control, and automation will be pivotal in ensuring the successful implementation of SMRs on ships. According to Juha Koskela, president of ABB's Marine and Ports division, this partnership will be instrumental in advancing the viability of nuclear solutions within the maritime domain. Jacob Stedman, CEO of Blykalla, emphasized the unique opportunity this collaboration presents for leading the charge in maritime nuclear propulsion, highlighting the necessity for a dedicated ecosystem of partners to realize this vision.

The backdrop to this agreement is the International Maritime Organization's recent moves to amend safety codes for nuclear merchant ships, reflecting the rapid advancements in nuclear technology, including small modular reactors. During its MSC 110 session in June, member states supported revisions to the existing code, acknowledging the need to incorporate these emerging technologies. The alignment of ABB and Blykalla's efforts with these regulatory developments further underscores the maritime industry's commitment to exploring nuclear power as a sustainable avenue for long-term decarbonization.

As the shipping sector continues to investigate nuclear energy solutions, notable projects are already underway. Hyundai, in collaboration with TerraPower, has introduced a concept for a 15,000 TEU containership powered by SMRs, while Samsung Heavy Industries is developing a nuclear-powered gas carrier utilizing molten salt reactor technology.

Additionally, a consortium exploring floating nuclear power plants for inland and port applications highlights the growing enthusiasm for diverse nuclear solutions in maritime contexts. With these advancements, the industry is poised to navigate the future of clean energy at sea.