Maersk decided to join forces with Lloyd's Register and nuclear engineering firm Core Power to explore the potential of using nuclear power to fuel container ships. This collaborative study will investigate the infrastructure and technology required to power a container ship with a fourth-generation nuclear reactor. Additionally, it will assess regulations and safety measures to determine the feasibility of nuclear-powered cargo operations in Europe.
Lloyd's Register CEO Nick Brown highlighted the importance of this study, emphasizing that nuclear propulsion could play a crucial role in the maritime industry's transition towards decarbonization. This aligns with the International Maritime Organization's (IMO) goal of achieving net-zero emissions from international shipping by 2050, alongside the European Union's upcoming 2025 carbon regulations for shipping companies.