ABB and Blykalla are doubling down on nuclear-powered shipping, and the timing couldn’t be sharper. Their expanded partnership targets small modular reactors (SMRs) for maritime use, aligning with the International Maritime Organization’s recent updates to nuclear safety codes. This isn’t just about ticking boxes—it’s about reshaping how ships are powered.
Blykalla’s SEALER reactor, a lead-cooled, passively safe design, is already on the radar of the NuProShip I project, which is adapting Generation IV SMRs for large vessels. ABB’s role? Bringing its muscle in power distribution, automation, and system integration to make this tech ship-ready. Juha Koskela, President of ABB’s Marine & Ports division, puts it bluntly: “SMRs hold significant potential to drive decarbonization.” No sugarcoating, just a direct line to the bottom line—cutting emissions.
The maritime industry is hungry for clean energy solutions that don’t compromise on power or scalability. SEALER’s compact design and passive safety features could be the game-changer, especially for larger vessels where traditional nuclear options have been a hard sell. ABB’s expertise in integrating complex systems means this isn’t just theoretical—it’s about turning a promising reactor into a viable shipboard solution.
Jacob Stedman, CEO of Blykalla, underscores the need for collaboration: “Realizing this vision will require an ecosystem of committed partners.” This isn’t just about two companies joining forces—it’s about building a network of expertise to push maritime nuclear propulsion into the mainstream.
The IMO’s recent updates to the Code of Safety for Nuclear Merchant Ships clear a regulatory path for SMRs, removing a major hurdle. But the real work starts now—proving these reactors can deliver on their promise of clean, reliable power at scale. ABB and Blykalla are betting big that they can. If they succeed, the ripple effects could redefine maritime energy.