Collaboration for Nuclear Power Generation in Maritime Industry
Queensland’s ship design group Seatransport and Houston-based Deployable Energy are joining forces with Lloyd’s Register (LR) to explore the possibilities of nuclear power generation in the maritime industry, particularly for strategic response vessels in remote areas.
Through the utilization of micro modular reactor (MMR) technology, the collaborative effort aims to incorporate two to five MMRs, each with a capacity of 1MWe, to power a 73-metre amphibious vessel. This vessel is designed for emergency response and disaster relief operations in isolated regions, offering the capability to operate for 8-10 years without the need for refueling. Additionally, it can supply power to affected areas by feeding into the shore grid when docked at port.
LR, a prominent maritime services group with expertise in maritime and nuclear innovation, is taking the lead in this program to ensure quality, protocols, and safety standards are established and adhered to throughout the development process.
The innovative concept was unveiled at LR’s recent Australia Advisory Committee Meeting, where Remko Hottentot, LR Commercial Manager–Australasia, formalized the agreement with the Australian stakeholders.