Allseas has launched a five-year plan to develop Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) designed for offshore vessels and onshore industrial use.
As explained, Allseas focuses on nuclear energy as a zero-emission, stable alternative to current fuels like hydrogen or ammonia, which face scalability and cost challenges. SMRs can also help reduce energy costs and grid strain onshore, supporting decarbonization and industrial resilience.
The company plans to complete design studies in the first year, followed by prototype development and regulatory consultations, aiming for production by 2030 with initial onshore deployment.
Application in maritime
A recent study by Lloyd’s Register found that the rise of small modular reactors could represent a transformative breakthrough for nuclear power applications in shipping, provided regulatory and safety challenges are overcome.
The report highlighted how nuclear energy has the potential to revolutionize the maritime industry by enabling emissions-free shipping, extending vessel lifespans, and reducing reliance on uncertain fuel and refueling infrastructure.
Additionally, in February, ABS Chairman and CEO Christopher J. Wiernicki emphasized that new nuclear reactor technology, particularly small modular reactors (SMRs), offers a unique opportunity for U.S. industrial policy and could revitalize the country’s shipbuilding sector.