en.Wedoany.com Reported - Core Power has initiated a research project to assess the feasibility of installing small modular reactors on oceangoing vessels. The project focuses on integrating the mPower reactor design developed by BWX Technologies into a shipborne structure known as a floating nuclear power plant.
Core Power CEO Mikal Bøe stated that the company is building, integrating, and deploying ship-based nuclear energy systems to provide reliable electricity to industries and nations where it is most needed. This assessment focuses on planning the legal compliance requirements, physical engineering adjustments, and financial structures necessary to bring these mobile energy stations into operation.
By shifting the assembly process entirely from standard construction sites to industrialized shipyards, the participants aim to stabilize production schedules and avoid delays common to land-based civil infrastructure. Bøe added that the evaluation of mPower technology is a key step in accelerating the strategy for fully modular floating nuclear power plant designs.
As electricity consumption outpaces the construction of new utility facilities, traditional power grids face increasing pressure. Developing land-based nuclear power plants often involves navigating lengthy local zoning regulations, extensive environmental reviews, and complex site preparation. Offshore assembled energy units are being considered as an alternative to bypass these regional bottlenecks. Once completed, these self-sufficient power vessels can be towed along waterways and moored near coastal cities, industrial zones, or remote areas facing severe energy shortages.
The current research phase covers several foundational aspects of project development. Engineers are establishing baseline data-sharing agreements and creating a unified operational concept. The team will also detail ship architecture requirements and conduct extensive financial assessments to confirm whether the cost per kilowatt justifies continued development. Bøe noted that electricity demand is rapidly outstripping supply, and markets requiring reliable power cannot wait for traditional infrastructure timelines. The United States possesses nuclear expertise, an industrial base, and a maritime tradition to lead this market, and CORE POWER's role is to integrate these strengths to accelerate the path from technology to product.
The selected reactor is a Generation III+ integrated pressurized water system capable of providing utility output in two different forms. A single unit can generate 195 megawatts of electricity for standard grid distribution, while the core can output 575 megawatts of thermal energy for industrial processes such as heavy manufacturing or seawater desalination. Under the current arrangement, Core Power is funding preliminary exploration work, leveraging its background in maritime logistics, ship assembly, and marine systems integration to adapt the technology for the aquatic environment; BWX Technologies contributes the core reactor blueprints. Preliminary survey data will determine whether the parties proceed to detailed engineering design, submit formal applications to regulatory bodies, or establish a joint venture to oversee actual production.
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