ABB — a global technology company in electrification and automation — has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Swedish nuclear energy company
Blykalla, the aim being to ‘support and accelerate’ the deployment of small, modular, lead-cooled reactors for the maritime industry.
Building on the terms of an existing MoU between Blykalla and ABB signed in October 2024, which targets developing lead-cooled SMR technology to support Sweden’s clean energy requirements, this agreement expands the partnership ‘and aligns with growing momentum for nuclear energy as a marine power source’.
In June this year, International Maritime Organisation administrations at the Maritime Safety Committee approved recommendations to amend the Code of Safety for Nuclear Merchant Ships to account for advances in nuclear technology since the Code came into force — including SMRs.
Blykalla’s Swedish Advanced Lead Reactor (Sealer) — a ‘compact, passively safe reactor with inherent safety structures’ that means they do not require any operator actions — was one of three reactors identified in the Nuclear Propulsion for Merchant Ships I project (this aims to adapt a Generation IV SMR to the requirements of maritime vessels — in particular, larger ships).
Juha Koskela, president of ABB’s Marine & Ports division, said the company’s expertise in system integration — as well as power distribution, control, and automation technologies — will be key to ensuring the successful deployment of the SMR as a shipboard solution. He added: “SMRs hold significant potential to drive decarbonisation, and our collaboration with Blykalla will help to advance their viability in maritime applications.
“Next-generation SMRs will enable innovative ship designs that can help to reduce emissions compared to vessels powered by carbon-based fuels. We are proud to partner with Blykalla on what represents an important step on shipping’s decarbonisation journey.”