ABB and Blykalla Accelerate Nuclear SMR Adoption in Maritime Industry

ABB and the Swedish nuclear energy firm Blykalla have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to accelerate the deployment of lead-cooled small modular reactors (SMRs) in the maritime industry. This agreement builds on a prior collaboration initiated in October 2024, focusing on developing lead-cooled SMR technology to support Sweden’s clean energy objectives.

The partnership aligns with the growing interest in nuclear energy as a sustainable power source within the maritime sector. In June, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Maritime Safety Committee (MSC 1102) endorsed updates to the Code of Safety for Nuclear Merchant Ships, incorporating advancements in nuclear technology, including SMRs.

Blykalla CEO Jacob Stedman highlighted the potential of their compact SEALR (Swedish Advanced Lead Reactor) design, which features passive safety systems that eliminate the need for operator intervention. SEALR was showcased in the NuProShip I project, aimed at adapting Generation IV SMRs for large maritime vessels.

ABB plays a vital role, leveraging its expertise in system integration, power distribution, control, and automation technologies to enable SMR deployment on ships. ABB Marine and Ports president Juha Koskela noted that SMRs could significantly drive decarbonization, supporting innovative ship designs with lower emissions compared to carbon-based fuels.

Additionally, ABB has partnered with eMarine to introduce 1 500 NINVA temperature sensors to the maritime industry, enhancing heat recovery and managing cooling water and ventilation systems onboard ships.