Marine classification society ABS and the US Department of Energy’s (DOE) Office of Nuclear Energy have entered into a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to advance the use of commercial nuclear technology at sea.

The work will encompass nuclear energy systems on floating platforms, nuclear-powered vessels, and the port facilities, shipyards and industrial base required for their construction and support.

Priorities include assessing concepts and feasibility for floating nuclear energy and nuclear transportation corridors.

The MoU also supports a US shipbuilding sector able to construct and operate nuclear-powered assets.