9 Jan 2025
Vard, in collaboration with the Norwegian University of Science and Technology and other industry stakeholders, is leading the NuProShip I project to evaluate fourth-generation nuclear reactor technologies for commercial maritime applications. This initiative reviewed 99 companies developing advanced reactor technologies, selecting three promising reactor types for further exploration.
Kairos Power from the US is developing a fluoride high-temperature molten salt reactor using TRISO fuel particles, known for their robust and efficient operation. Ultra Safe Nuclear Corporation, also from the US, is working on a helium-cooled gas reactor, employing TRISO fuel particles. From Sweden, Blykalla is advancing a lead-cooled reactor concept using uranium oxide as fuel, offering enhanced efficiency through advanced cooling mechanisms. TRISO fuel particles are a focal point due to their durability and containment properties.
Vard, along with partners such as DNV, the Norwegian Maritime Administration, Knutsen Tankers, and IDOM, is focused on integrating these reactor systems into ship designs and addressing technical challenges to enable the future use of nuclear-powered ships. The NuProShip I project sets the stage for NuProShip II, a two-year endeavor aimed at refining nuclear propulsion solutions for maritime applications. This next phase will include insurance companies in the consortium, a crucial step in evaluating the business viability of nuclear technology in the shipping industry.
In December 2024, Vard delivered a cable-laying vessel to Danish subsea specialist NCT Offshore, completing the project in under two years since the contract was signed. Built on the Vard 9 01 design, the vessel boasts improved sea-keeping, enhanced station-keeping capabilities, and fuel efficiency, making it ideal for sustainable subsea operations.
The initial phase of Norway’s NuProShip initiative, which evaluates Generation IV small modular reactor (SMR) technologies for their suitability in commercial shipping, has concluded with the selection of three SMR technologies for further assessment in the next phase. The NuProShip project, funded by the Research Council of Norway, is supported by prominent partners, including the Norwegian University of Science and Technology, class society DNV, the Norwegian Maritime Administration, ship owner Knutsen Tankers, and the Spanish nuclear consultancy IDOM.
Vard’s primary contribution involves integrating these reactor systems into various vessel types and assessing technical challenges to enable the future commercial use of nuclear-powered ships. The ultimate goal is to develop a commercially viable zero-emission technology for deep-sea ships that satisfies all stakeholders and requires no subsidies after the initial development process.
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