MARAD and Long Beach to Explore Nuclear Power for Ships

The U.S. Maritime Administration (MARAD) is preparing to sign a landmark agreement with the Port of Long Beach to study the use of small modular reactors (SMRs) for commercial vessels and other port operations, marking a significant step in the growing discussion around nuclear-powered shipping.

The agreement, which is expected to be signed in Washington on Wednesday, will be the first partnership of its kind between MARAD and a U.S. port. The collaboration will examine how SMR technology could be developed and integrated into ships, port terminals and the wider maritime transportation network.

The initiative is part of the Trump administration’s strategy to strengthen the U.S. maritime sector and domestic shipbuilding while reducing reliance on traditional marine fuels.

In May, MARAD launched a wider SMR program, inviting proposals for a U.S.-built reactor system that could be deployed across commercial fleets and supporting logistics infrastructure. Rather than treating nuclear propulsion as a one-time demonstration project, the agency said it wants to develop it as a long-term commercial solution.

“Under President Trump’s leadership, the US is reclaiming its rightful place as a global sea power,” Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said when announcing the initiative.

By partnering with industry experts and outside-the-box thinkers to develop a strong SMR model, we will deliver a state-of-the-art energy source that cuts costs and bolsters national security.”

Supporters of small modular reactors believe the technology could provide dependable, high-output power that enables commercial ships to operate for much longer without conventional bunkering. They also argue that extended reactor fuel cycles could reduce exposure to fluctuating fuel prices while eliminating greenhouse gas emissions during vessel operations.

However, introducing nuclear-powered commercial shipping would require a comprehensive regulatory and operational framework.

MARAD’s request for industry feedback covers a wide range of issues, including reactor and vessel design, port acceptance, security, crew training, inspections, liability, insurance and compliance with international regulations. The agency is working alongside the U.S. Coast Guard, the Nuclear Regulatory Commission and the Department of Energy.

MARAD Administrator Stephen Carmel said the transition should be viewed as a system-wide transformation rather than simply introducing a new propulsion technology aboard ships.

As a result, the agreement with the Port of Long Beach is expected to examine more than ship propulsion. Potential applications also include shore-based electricity generation and resilient energy supplies for cargo-handling equipment and terminal infrastructure.

The project remains in its early stages, and no specific reactor design, vessel or deployment schedule has been announced.