Maritime Nuclear Propulsion:
Technologies, Commercial Viability, and Regulatory Challenges for Nuclear-Powered Vessels
EVENT DESCRIPTION
This presentation examines the technologies, commercial potential, and regulatory hurdles shaping the future of nuclear propulsion in maritime transport. Although no civilian nuclear vessels have been commissioned in over 40 years—except limited Russian trials—renewed interest is driven by evolving technology, regulation, and market dynamics. Realizing nuclear's potential requires a cost-effective, maritime-adapted fuel cycle and clear supply chain roles. Advances in digitalization, automation, and cybersecurity are helping address safety, cost, and oversight concerns. Modular, standardized reactor designs—especially Generation III+, IV, and SMRs—could reduce construction time, enhance safety, and improve economic viability. A predictable international regulatory framework, led by IMO and IAEA, is essential, with classification societies supporting global adoption. Reactor cost is a key factor: DNV studies suggest competitiveness below $18,000/kW with full decarbonization, or $8,000/kW without. Ultimately, viable business models must reflect shipping realities and total fuel cycle costs to make nuclear propulsion a credible decarbonization pathway.
SPEAKER/PRESENTER
Dr Ole Reistad is the research lead on nuclear propulsion for DNV, holding a joint position at the Nuclear Research Centre at the University of Oslo. He is a trained physicist with experience in educational, regulatory, and operational activities. He has lectured at the University of Oslo for many years, has regulatory experience from the Norwegian regulatory authority for Norwegian nuclear facilities and port calls from foreign vessels, and has served as reactor manager for the now decommissioned reactor at Kjeller, Norway.
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