U.S. Firm Reveals Micro Nuclear Reactor That Could Power Ships For Decades Without Refuelling

US-based microreactor developer AMPERA has partnered with Scorpio Tankers to develop nuclear-powered systems for ships, offshore operations and port infrastructure, aiming to provide long-term, zero-carbon energy solutions for the maritime sector.

As part of the agreement, Scorpio Tankers has invested $10 million in AMPERA to support the development and deployment of these systems.

The companies said the collaboration is focused on meeting growing demand for reliable and low-emission power across global shipping and offshore markets.

The partners plan to roll out the technology in two stages. In the near term, they will work on floating nuclear power barges that can supply energy to ports and offshore locations. Over the longer term, they aim to develop nuclear-powered commercial vessels.

AMPERA is working on a compact, containerised micro nuclear reactor that uses thorium-based fuel in a subcritical, solid-state system.

The reactor is designed to operate for decades without refuelling, removing the need for traditional marine fuel. It is expected to generate between 15 and 30 MWe of power.

The design uses TRISO fuel derived from thorium and does not require uranium enrichment. It produces heat to run a turbine using supercritical CO2 instead of water, which allows it to operate without a water source.

The system is built with a sealed, long-life core and is designed to reduce operational complexity, minimise space requirements and improve efficiency for marine use.

According to Scorpio Tankers, such systems could help reduce fuel costs, lower vessel weight and improve efficiency by removing the need for bunkering and cutting carbon emissions.

The company said nuclear microreactors could provide a long-duration energy option for ships, offshore platforms and port infrastructure.

Under the agreement, Scorpio Tankers will act as the strategic market lead and contribute marine engineering, technical design, regulatory knowledge and commercial connections.

The company currently owns 89 product tankers with an average age of just over 10 years. AMPERA will provide access to its reactor technology and work with Scorpio to develop commercial models such as power-as-a-service, leasing and long-term service agreements.

The collaboration will focus on several areas including floating power barges, nuclear-powered commercial vessels, offshore and remote maritime energy supply, and port and coastal power infrastructure.

Company officials said the technology could increase capacity, reduce engine room space and cut overall vessel weight while removing carbon emissions.

They added that the system aligns with safety principles by using a sealed core, eliminating fuel handling, avoiding water use and reducing proliferation risks.

The International Maritime Organization has set targets to reach net-zero emissions by or around 2050. The sector currently uses about 350 million tonnes of fossil fuel each year and contributes roughly 3% of global carbon emissions.

AMPERA has also announced plans to seek licensing for its reactor under new regulations introduced by the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission.

The updated rules are designed to support advanced reactor technologies. The company has already started the pre-application process for its factory-built, modular microreactor and has requested an initial meeting with the regulator.

Reference: interestingengineering