American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) has launched a new classification notation designed to help owners, designers and builders plan for potential future conversion of marine and offshore assets to nuclear power.

The ABS Nuclear-Ready Notation, released on 28 May, is described by the Houston-based classification society as an industry first. It is accompanied by a new guidance document — the Guide for Nuclear-Ready Applications for Marine and Offshore — which sets out the framework underpinning the notation.

According to ABS, the notation provides a formal mechanism for incorporating nuclear conversion planning into asset design from the outset, rather than treating it as a future consideration. Assets currently operating on conventional power arrangements — such as diesel-electric, battery-electric or other non-nuclear systems — can use the notation to plan ahead while continuing to operate under existing power configurations.

Readiness considerations evaluated under the notation may include space allocation, structural arrangements, system interfaces, safety-related features and other design elements relevant to a future nuclear conversion.

Patrick Ryan, ABS Senior Vice President and Chief Technology Officer, said: "The Nuclear-Ready Notation addresses a growing industry need to plan for future nuclear adoption in a structured way, incorporating the technology's specific requirements. As interest in nuclear energy as a marine and offshore power source continues to expand, and the technology develops, ABS is proud to provide industry-leading guidance for owners, designers and builders: a formal framework to incorporate future nuclear conversion into their design approach from the outset."

According to ABS, the notation is intended to help preserve long-term design flexibility and reduce the risk of major redesign later in an asset's life cycle.