A new Lloyd’s Register–LucidCatalyst report for Seaspan Corporation concludes that nuclear-powered containerships using small modular reactors could save operators up to $68 million per ship each year by eliminating bunker fuel and carbon-compliance costs. The study finds that a 15,000-TEU nuclear vessel could operate 39% faster and boost annual cargo capacity by 38%, while also freeing up container space normally reserved for fuel systems. Large-scale adoption would require a cross-industry consortium to secure a supply chain capable of delivering more than 1,000 modular reactors within 10–15 years. The report outlines a pathway to commercial readiness within four years, with low operating costs and long refuelling intervals. Seaspan says nuclear propulsion could soon enable safe, economic, and fully emission-free container shipping.
