Nuclear-powered containerships could save operators up to $68 million per vessel each year while eliminating greenhouse gas emissions, according to a new industry report.
The study, published by Lloyd’s Register and LucidCatalyst for Seaspan Corporation, examines how small modular reactors (SMRs) could be deployed across the global containership fleet. It concludes that nuclear propulsion could remove the two biggest operating costs: fuel and carbon penalties.
The report estimates annual savings of up to $50 million in fuel and $18 million in carbon-related charges per ship. It also points to major performance gains. A 15,000 TEU nuclear-powered vessel could sail 39% faster and carry up to 38% more cargo per year thanks to higher speeds and freed-up space from removing fuel systems.
The authors say commercial rollout could begin within four years under an accelerated programme. If the industry commits to large-scale orders, reactor costs could fall sharply, making nuclear ships competitive with conventional designs. Each reactor would operate for around five years before refuelling.
The next phase of the project will focus on design and regulation, followed by a full implementation roadmap for large-scale adoption.
