The collaboration focuses on developing micro modular reactor technology for strategic response vessels in remote areas.
Seatransport, a ship design group based in Queensland, has joined forces with Deployable Energy from Houston and Lloyd’s Register (LR) to advance nuclear power generation for maritime applications.
The collaboration aims to develop micro modular reactor (MMR) technology for use in strategic response vessels operating in remote locations.
The concept was unveiled during LR’s recent Australia Advisory Committee Meeting, where Remko Hottentot, LR commercial manager – Australasia, formalised the agreement with the Australian partners.
The project will involve the installation of two to five MMRs, each with a capacity of 1MWe, on a 73m amphibious vessel tailored for emergency response and disaster relief missions.
This design will allow the vessel to function for a period of eight to ten years without the need for refuelling, and it will have the capability to supply power to shore grids in affected regions while docked.
Lloyd’s Register, a global maritime services organisation with expertise in both maritime and nuclear sectors, is overseeing the initiative to ensure adherence to quality standards, safety protocols, and regulatory requirements.
LR global technical director Claudene Sharp-Patel said: “As nuclear technology progresses towards maritime applications, LR is uniquely positioned to help develop these initiatives.
“We bring our extensive history in maritime and nuclear safety, providing a strong foundation for safe, insurable, and scalable nuclear-powered shipping.
“Our extensive experience with small modular reactors in the defence sector further demonstrates our commitment to safety and innovation.”
Last month, LR partnered with Microsoft to leverage generative AI for advancing nuclear technology in the maritime sector.
This collaboration will utilise Microsoft’s Azure OpenAI Service to simplify the regulatory process for nuclear technology, facilitating the integration of terrestrial and maritime applications.
