Lloyd’s Register (LR) has released Navigating Nuclear Energy in Maritime, the first detailed roadmap for safely integrating nuclear technology, including small modular reactors (SMRs), into commercial shipping and offshore operations.
Developed in partnership with Global Nuclear Security Partners (GNSP), and marine insurer NorthStandard, it provides clear steps for shipowners, operators, and regulators covering regulatory approval, technical design, safety standards, crew training, insurance, and security measures.
The guidance highlights the urgent need to align maritime regulations with nuclear standards due to the absence of an international framework, addressing key areas such as safety classification, environmental impact, structural integrity, and nuclear safety cases. Operational and financial aspects, including personnel qualifications, emergency preparedness, insurance, and liability considerations, are also covered.
Mark Tipping, Global Power to X Director at Lloyd’s Register, emphasised nuclear power’s potential as a zero-carbon, scalable solution for maritime transport, contingent on cooperation among regulators, operators, insurers, and society.
This roadmap builds on LR’s earlier Fuel for Thought: Nuclear research programme, combining extensive classification and nuclear expertise to guide project teams through all development phases. It aims to help early adopters navigate technical, regulatory, and financial challenges to accelerate maritime decarbonisation safely and responsibly.
