Port of Long Beach signs agreement to study support for nuclear-powered vessels

The Port of Long Beach has signed a Memorandum of Cooperation with the U.S. Maritime Administration (MARAD) to study what would be required to safely support commercial vessels powered by emerging nuclear technologies, including small modular reactors (SMRs).

Signed at the U.S. Department of Transportation headquarters by Port of Long Beach CEO Dr. Noel Hacegaba, the agreement makes Long Beach the first U.S. port to formally examine the infrastructure, regulatory and operational requirements for accommodating commercial nuclear-powered ships.

While any potential deployment remains years away, the study is intended to help the port prepare for future clean energy technologies.

Under the agreement, the Port will work with MARAD, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission and the U.S. Coast Guard to assess the opportunities and safety considerations associated with the technology.

The study does not commit Port funding or endorse any specific nuclear technology.

The initiative forms part of the Port of Long Beach’s long-term strategy to explore emerging technologies while prioritizing safety and environmental sustainability.

While any potential application remains years away, we’re taking a proactive approach to exploring clean energy innovations

… the Port said in a LinkedIn post.