ABS and the Korea Research Institute of Ships & Ocean Engineering (KRISO) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to cooperate on applying small modular reactors (SMRs) in the marine and offshore sectors, ABS said in a news release.
The agreement creates a framework for information exchange and joint research projects focused on concept designs for an SMR-powered ship and a floating SMR power generation platform. It also aims to identify and develop applicable regulatory guidelines and international standards.
ABS Chairman and CEO Christopher J. Wiernicki said nuclear energy provides “unmatched energy density, reliability, and strategic independence” and is becoming a “legitimate, practical, and scalable solution” for powering ports, producing hydrogen, and supporting offshore applications such as floating data centers, synthetic fuel platforms, and desalination systems.
ABS Senior Vice President and Chief Technology Officer Patrick Ryan stated that “modern nuclear technologies offer the potential to meet energy demands with a reliable power source in many areas of the marine and offshore markets,” adding that ABS is supporting nuclear power projects through its expertise in international regulations and Class-related safety requirements.
KRISO President Keyyong Hong said the institute is focusing on “advancing the application of SMRs to ships and offshore plants,” emphasizing that cooperation with ABS will help integrate their technical expertise and accelerate progress in SMR technologies. ABS has recently published several nuclear-focused studies, including an October 2024 report on an SMR-powered LNG carrier. The company’s “Requirements for Nuclear Power Systems for Marine and Offshore Applications” are also publicly available.
ABS (American Bureau of Shipping) is a classification society incorporated as a non-profit organization under U.S. law. It provides technical standards and certification for the design, construction, and operation of marine and offshore assets. The organization is headquartered in Houston, Texas, and is involved in developing safety, regulatory, and environmental guidelines for global shipping and offshore industries.
Korea Research Institute of Ships & Ocean Engineering (KRISO) is a government-funded research institute under the Korea Institute of Ocean Science and Technology (KIOST). Based in Daejeon, South Korea, KRISO conducts applied and fundamental research in shipbuilding, ocean engineering, and marine energy systems. Its work supports technological innovation in ship design, marine safety, and environmental sustainability.
