American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) and the Korea Research Institute of Ships & Ocean Engineering (KRISO) have signed a memorandum of understanding to collaborate on small modular reactor (SMR) applications in marine and offshore sectors.

The agreement establishes a framework for information exchange and joint research projects focused on concept designs for SMR-powered vessels and floating SMR power generation platforms. The partnership aims to identify and develop applicable regulatory guidelines and international standards for nuclear marine applications.

Christopher J. Wiernicki, ABS chairman and CEO, said nuclear energy offers potential for various marine applications: "Nuclear energy offers unmatched energy density, reliability, and strategic independence. It is emerging as a legitimate, practical, and scalable solution for a wide range of strategic uses such as powering ports and producing hydrogen on the shore side and offshore through floating data centres, synthetic fuel platforms, and desalination systems."

Patrick Ryan, ABS senior vice president and chief technology officer, emphasised the classification society's role in nuclear power development: "Modern nuclear technologies offer the potential to meet energy demands with a reliable power source in many areas of the marine and offshore markets. ABS is taking a role in the support of nuclear power projects in the industry through our knowledge of international regulations and development of Class-related safety requirements."

Keyyong Hong, KRISO president, outlined the institute's research focus: "Our institute is dedicating its research capacity to the development of marine decarbonisation technologies, with a particular focus on advancing the application of SMRs to ships and offshore plants. Through this MoU, the integration of ABS and KRISO's technological expertise and a well-defined division of roles will accelerate progress in core SMR technologies and secure excellence in this emerging field."

The collaboration comes as the marine industry increasingly considers nuclear propulsion for commercial shipping. Among a range of nuclear-focused ABS publications in recent years, ABS released a study examining a potential SMR-powered LNG carrier in October 2024 and has published requirements for nuclear power systems for marine and offshore applications.