Wedoany.com Report-Nov. 2, Classification society ABS and the Korea Research Institute of Ships & Ocean Engineering (KRISO) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to collaborate on the application of small modular reactors (SMRs) for use in marine and offshore industries. The agreement establishes a cooperative framework for information exchange and joint research projects focused on conceptual designs for SMR-powered vessels and floating SMR-based power generation platforms. One of the key goals is to identify and develop relevant regulatory guidelines and international standards for future applications.

Christopher J. Wiernicki, ABS Chairman and CEO, said: “Nuclear energy offers unmatched energy density, reliability, and strategic independence. It is emerging as a legitimate, practical, and scalable solution for a wide range of strategic uses such as powering ports and producing hydrogen on the shore side and offshore through floating data centers, synthetic fuel platforms and desalination systems.”

Patrick Ryan, ABS Senior Vice President and Chief Technology Officer, added: “Modern nuclear technologies offer the potential to meet energy demands with a reliable power source in many areas of the marine and offshore markets. ABS is taking a leading role in supporting nuclear power projects in the industry through our knowledge of international regulations and development of Class-related safety requirements. We are proud to work with KRISO to continue these advancements in SMR applications.”

KRISO President Keyyong Hong commented: “Our institute is dedicating its research capacity to the development of marine decarbonization technologies, with a particular focus on advancing the application of SMRs to ships and offshore plants. Through this MOU, the integration of ABS and KRISO’s technological expertise and a well-defined division of roles will accelerate progress in core SMR technologies and secure excellence in this emerging field.”

This is not the first collaboration between the two organizations. Last year, ABS and KRISO partnered to advance commercial SMR-powered ships and floating SMR power generation platforms. Under that arrangement, ABS was responsible for analyzing applicable regulatory guidelines and international standards for SMR-powered vessel design, while KRISO focused on developing core SMR technologies.

In a related development, ABS earlier this year granted Approval in Principle (AiP) to affiliates of South Korean conglomerate HD Hyundai — HD Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) and HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering (HD KSOE) — for their concept of a floating SMR unit. This design aims to generate electricity both offshore and near shore, providing power support for port facilities and nearby coastal communities.

The collaboration between ABS and KRISO reflects growing global interest in nuclear-based energy solutions for maritime and offshore applications. By combining regulatory expertise and technological innovation, both organizations aim to promote the safe and effective use of SMR technology in the marine industry while contributing to long-term decarbonization and sustainable energy goals.