Nuclear-powered vessels are achievable, Norwegian-led study confirms

January 26, 2026, by Nadja Skopljak

Nuclear-powered DP vessels are a technically feasible solution and are achievable, the Nuclear Propulsion in merchant Shipping (NuProShip II) study has confirmed.

The NuProShip II project, funded by the Research Council of Norway, demonstrates the technical feasibility of nuclear-powered DP vessels, researching the possibility of nuclear reactors contributing to efficiency, reliability, and environmental responsibility for the maritime industry.

VARD recently finalized the development of a concept design for a nuclear-powered construction vessel based on its existing reference concept. The study investigates the feasibility of integrating a helium gas-cooled nuclear reactor as the primary power source and evaluates its implications for vessel layout, safety, and overall system performance.

The case study is led by Vard Design and conducted in close cooperation with DNV, Emerald Nuclear, Vard Electro, offshore ship owner Island Offshore, and project leader Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU).

According to VARD, the study confirms that, with validated assumptions and supplier data, nuclear-powered DP vessels are achievable. The integration aligns with the high redundancy required for DP2 power architecture, with the possibility to also adapt to DP3 requirements, enhancing operational safety and reliability.

By leveraging advanced reactor concepts, NuProShip II is said to offer the potential for the removal of greenhouse gas emissions and extended operations. The project also explores innovative energy storage solutions, such as supercritical CO2 turbines and thermal battery systems.

In addition, NuProShip II acknowledges the need for a modern regulatory framework and greater industrial experience in civilian nuclear marine propulsion. The project also recognizes the importance of public acceptance and environmental stewardship, VARD said.

“We are proud to contribute to the future of maritime innovation. NuProShip II demonstrates that nuclear-powered vessels are not just a vision, but a technically feasible solution. Our work lays the foundation for safer, more efficient, and environmentally responsible shipping,” said Henrik Burvang, Research & Innovation Manager at Vard Design AS and responsible for NuProShip II at Vard.

“We hope this project brings real value to the continued development of maritime nuclear technology. It is also particularly valuable to have a professional ship owner and operator like Island Offshore in the project, proving that ship owners are focusing on this technology going forward.”

The project will be concluded this year and followed by the Sustainable Applied and Industrialized Nuclear Technology (SFI SAINT) center for research-based innovation led by NTNU, where VARD will be one of the key partners.

The national center has received NOK 96 million (almost €8.3 million) in funding from the Research Council of Norway to research maritime nuclear technology. In-kind contributions from industry, including Vard, amount to about NOK 200 million. The center will operate for eight years starting this month.

NuProShip I concluded on December 31, 2024. After the two-year NuProShip II concludes, NuProShip III will begin and will see the prototype solution tested.