A recent study reveals that a nuclear-powered Newcastlemax bulk carrier could operate longer, faster, and more cost-effectively than conventional bulk carriers using very low sulfur fuel oil (VLSFO) or green ammonia, all while producing zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The study was conducted by Amsterdam-based nuclear development firm ULC-Energy in partnership with ship design and engineering company C-Job Naval Architects.
The research compares the design and economic implications of employing civil nuclear reactor technology in a Newcastlemax bulk carrier. It evaluates the structural impact, GHG emissions, and commercial performance associated with each fuel type.
Key findings from the study include:
- Integrating a nuclear reactor into a Newcastlemax bulk carrier would require minimal structural and safety modifications, allowing it to maintain its cargo capacity.
- Nuclear propulsion offers the lowest operational cost per ton shipped, significantly undercutting alternatives like ammonia or VLSFO. Although the initial construction costs for nuclear-powered vessels are higher, the study indicates that their overall efficiency allows for longer, faster, and more economical voyages without GHG emissions.
- A nuclear-powered Newcastlemax has nearly zero GHG emissions, even lower than vessels using green ammonia, highlighting nuclear propulsion’s potential to aid in the shipping industry’s decarbonization efforts.
The report also acknowledges that civil nuclear maritime propulsion faces challenges, including licensing and operational issues. ULC-Energy notes that most nuclear reactor designs for maritime use are still conceptual, limiting current capital cost estimates, though accuracy is expected to improve as projects advance.
Source: C-Job/ULC-Energy
Niels De Vries, Head of Energy at C-Job, emphasized the significance of the study in promoting nuclear power adoption in marine vessels. He remarked on C-Job’s ability to collaborate flexibly with clients and integrate knowledge to create significant value, contributing to more sustainable shipping practices.
C-Job’s earlier research in 2022 suggested that large ocean-going vessels are prime candidates for nuclear propulsion, with the Molten Salt Reactor showing the most promise due to its passive safety features, high burn-up, and potential for utilizing the thorium cycle.
A recent report from Lloyd’s Register (LR) indicated that nuclear power could revolutionize the maritime industry by enabling emissions-free shipping, extending vessel lifecycles, and alleviating uncertainties surrounding fuel and refueling infrastructure. However, regulatory and safety issues must be addressed for widespread commercial adoption.
Earlier this year, a coalition of companies focused on developing nuclear energy solutions for the maritime sector established the Nuclear Energy Maritime Organization (NEMO) to aid regulators in creating appropriate standards and regulations for the deployment, operation, and decommissioning of floating nuclear power systems.
