As the maritime industry races toward decarbonization, a groundbreaking partnership between ABB and Blykalla is setting the stage for a new era of clean energy at sea. The two companies have signed a memorandum of understanding to deploy small modular reactors (SMRs)—specifically, Blykalla’s SEALER reactor—on maritime vessels.
🔬 What Is SEALER?
The Swedish Advanced Lead Reactor (SEALER) is a compact, lead-cooled fast reactor designed for maritime use. With a capacity of 55 MWe, it features passive safety systems, uranium nitride fuel, and a design that eliminates the need for fuel replacement during operation. This makes it ideal for long-haul shipping and remote operations. [ABB, Blyka…ritime SMR]
ABB’s role in the partnership is to provide system integration, power distribution, and automation technologies, ensuring the SMR can be safely and efficiently deployed aboard ships.
“SMRs hold significant potential to drive decarbonisation,” said Juha Koskela, President of ABB’s Marine & Ports Division. “Our collaboration with Blykalla will help to advance their viability in maritime applications.” [ABB, Blyka…ritime SMR]
🌍 A Broader Nuclear Movement in Maritime
This partnership is part of a larger trend. According to Maritime-Hub.com, other initiatives are exploring micro modular reactors (MMRs) for emergency response vessels. These reactors can operate for 8–10 years without refueling, and even supply power to shore grids during crises. [The Rise o…r Reactors]
Meanwhile, the UK is positioning itself as a leader in maritime nuclear power. A report featured on Maritime-Hub outlines a potential £2.5 trillion economic opportunity through SMR deployment, urging regulatory reform to support nuclear-powered shipping. [The UK Mar…Editorials]
🚢 Why It Matters
The maritime sector contributes significantly to global CO₂ emissions. With the International Maritime Organization (IMO) targeting net-zero emissions by 2050, nuclear propulsion offers a scalable, zero-emission alternative to fossil fuels.
The ABB-Blykalla partnership could pave the way for:
- Cleaner long-distance shipping
- Reduced fuel logistics
- Innovative ship designs
- Energy independence for vessels
🔗 Learn More
- ABB & Blykalla Maritime SMR Partnership – NEI Magazine [ABB, Blyka…ritime SMR]
- Micro Modular Reactors in Shipping – Maritime Hub [The Rise o…r Reactors]
- UK’s Nuclear Maritime Strategy – Maritime Hub [The UK Mar…Editorials]
The Maritime-Hub Editorial Team
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Maritime-Hub. Readers are advised to research this information before making decisions based on it.
