THERON TRANSFORM OPINION ON NUCLEAR POWERED SHIPS, A VERY BAD IDEA!
Global Programs: UK-based startup CORE POWER is set to raise $500 million to advance the design of nuclear-powered containerships, aiming to create the world’s first civilian maritime nuclear program.
Their technology promises zero-emission propulsion for large cargo ships and future floating nuclear power plants, offering flexible, disaster-resistant power generation.
While naval nuclear reactors have existed since the 1950s, commercial insurance hurdles remain.
CORE POWER is working on reactors that could revolutionize global trade by improving shipping efficiency, alongside initiatives in green hydrogen, steel production, and water desalination.
Why Shipping Needs Nuclear: Mikal Bøe’s remarks at IMO MSC 108
Published: 07/06/2024
by CorePower
On May 20, 2024, Mikal Bøe, CEO of CORE POWER and Maritime Applications and Nuclear Propulsion Working Group Chair at WNTI, addressed the delegates at the 108th session of the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) Maritime Safety Committee (MSC 108). This marks his third presentation to the IMO on the topic of integrating new nuclear technologies into the maritime sector.
Addressing GHG Emissions and Energy Efficiency
Bøe emphasized the urgent need to significantly reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and improve energy efficiency in the shipping industry. He pointed out that while there are several alternative fuels and technologies available, nuclear energy is the only solution that offers true zero emissions and substantial improvements in energy efficiency. He highlighted the immense energy content, impressive safety record at sea, and minimal waste production as key advantages of nuclear power.
Revising the Code of Safety for Nuclear Merchant Ships
A central theme of his remarks was the necessity to modernize the Code of Safety for Nuclear Merchant Ships (Resolution A.491.XII), which was adopted in 1981. He presented a comprehensive gap analysis conducted by experts together with the World Nuclear Transport Institute (WNTI), which identified necessary updates to align the code with current standards for both maritime and nuclear safety. This revision is critical to making new nuclear solutions viable for commercial shipping.
Coordination with the IAEA
Bøe also discussed the need for coordination with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to create a cohesive regulatory framework for nuclear-powered ships. He noted that the IAEA is performing its own gap analysis looking at how their standards for nuclear safety, security, and safeguards will apply to floating nuclear power.
The Role of Insurance
Addressing the insurance challenges, Bøe underscored the importance of developing a new liability convention for nuclear-powered ships. Current nuclear liability conventions exclude ships, making commercial insurance and port access difficult. He said new nuclear technologies that meet stringent safety criteria will facilitate the development of commercial insurance for these vessels.
The Path Forward
Bøe outlined a roadmap for integrating nuclear power into the shipping industry:
- Revising the Code of Safety for Nuclear Merchant Ships at the IMO.
- IAEA completes gap analysis of standards for floating nuclear in close dialogue with IMO.
- Developing a new liability convention with the insurance industry.
- Establishing domestic regulations for the transit and operation of nuclear-powered ships.
He emphasized that with these steps, nuclear-powered ships could become a reality by the early 2030s, significantly reducing the shipping industry’s carbon footprint and enhancing energy efficiency.Bøe concluded by encouraging delegates to support the revision of the Code of Safety for Nuclear Merchant Ships and to engage in discussions to further the development of nuclear-powered shipping. This initiative, he asserted, is essential for meeting global climate goals and advancing maritime energy efficiency.
AND HERE IS THE MASSIVE PROBLEM FOR THIS COMPANY
Insurance and Liability
No offshore installation or ship can operate without valid insurance. For insurance cover to be arranged, several key issues must be resolved, and documentation must be valid including Classification certificates for the floating asset, Licenses for the nuclear plant and type approvals of all associated equipment and control systems. As a new generation of advanced nuclear technologies emerge as a key component of true- zero-emission power for heavy industry and transport, new modernised and appropriate licensing, classification and insurance frameworks will be adopted.
The EPZ
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To be commercially viable, maritime nuclear reactors must prioritize inherent safety. All nuclear plants, regardless of their size or design, require an emergency planning zone (EPZ) surrounding the reactor. Conventional pressurized reactors often necessitate large EPZs, which poses a significant challenge for maritime applications.However, reactors operating at ambient pressure offer a promising solution. These designs have the potential to drastically reduce EPZ requirements, potentially shrinking them to very small areas. This breakthrough could remove a major obstacle for the development of floating nuclear power plants and allow nuclear-powered ships to access civilian ports. |
Pushing Forward
In 1962, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) adopted the Convention on the Liability of Operators of Nuclear Ships, with the aim of establishing uniform rules for all nuclear ship operators. The convention was never ratified and did not enter into force. Most of the rules in this convention are in line with the other international nuclear agreements, as well as the main principles stated in civil law dealing with damages. The conditions for customary use and navigation include key items such as construction according to acceptable technical documentation; regular maintenance and service of the vessel, reactor, and equipment; and a trained and educated crew. The key to creating a modernised version of the convention, and trigger the necessary level of engagement with the insurance sector, is a new set of Classification Rules from leading the Classification Societies. The world’s leading societies are represented at IACS, which is influential at the IMO. CORE POWER is engaged in the work of how forming the basis of a well-suited insurance regime for floating nuclear power plants and nuclear-powered ships.
THERON TRANSFORM warning!!!
It is not only dangerous but absolutely not feasible to install nuclear power on ships. Look at the image to the right of how many layers of concrete and steel is used to safeguard a nuclear reactor. Now you would immediately say, well there are nuclear subs. Yes, but they are mostly far below the sea’s surface.
Imagine a oil tanker or cargo ship sails through the Panama canal or Suise Canal, and a nuclear accident happen? This would be very costly for the entire world because of supply chain cost factors.
THERON TRANSFORM can transform container or oil cargo ships with our magnetic generators, which are safe, green energy sources that prevent nuclear disasters at a fraction of the cost.
