Nuclear energy could be as transformational to shipping as shift from sail to steam, says LR - TradeWinds
Nuclear energy could be as transformational to shipping as shift from sail to steam, says LR | TradeWinds
Nuclear power has the potential to revolutionise the maritime industry by cutting out vessel emissions and the need for a bunkering network, according to a new report by class society Lloyd’s Register.
The 40-page assessment raises the prospect of a fundamental change in the ownership structure of ships with a power company owning onboard reactors and charging shipowners for power produced.
Related Knowledge Center: ENERGY BASICS: nuclear
Nuclear energy provides almost 20 percent of the U.S. electricity supply. Advocates have called for an expanded role for nuclear as an emissions-free fuel source. But the economics of building new reactors are daunting. In addition, lingering safety concerns are an institutionalized part of the calculation of nuclear regulation, and highly radioactive nuclear waste remains a can that public officials have been inclined to kick down the road. The Energy Information Administration projects a sharp decline in nuclear power generation over the next decade, as new nuclear plants — two are planned — are more than offset by anticipated retirements of several operating reactors.