ABB and Blykalla Forge Ahead with Nuclear Propulsion for Maritime Sector

September 14, 2025

ABB and Swedish nuclear energy firm Blykalla have expanded their collaboration through a new memorandum of understanding (MoU) aimed at accelerating the deployment of small modular reactors (SMRs) for maritime applications. This strategic partnership builds upon a previous agreement and signals a significant step towards integrating nuclear power as a clean energy solution for the shipping industry, aligning with global decarbonization efforts.

Key Takeaways

ABB and Blykalla are strengthening their partnership to advance SMR technology for maritime use.
The collaboration focuses on Blykalla’s compact, passively safe lead-cooled SMR, the SEALER.
ABB will provide expertise in system integration, power distribution, control, and automation.
The move aligns with the International Maritime Organization’s efforts to update safety codes for nuclear merchant ships.
This initiative is part of a broader trend of exploring nuclear power for shipping’s decarbonization goals.

Advancing Maritime Nuclear Technology

ABB and Blykalla’s expanded partnership focuses on leveraging Blykalla’s Swedish Advanced Lead Reactor (SEALER) technology. The SEALER is a compact, Generation IV SMR designed with inherent safety features, requiring no operator intervention. This makes it a promising candidate for shipboard power, particularly for larger vessels, as highlighted in the Nuclear Propulsion for Merchant Ships I (NuProShip I) project.

ABB’s Crucial Role

ABB’s extensive expertise in system integration, power distribution, control, and automation technologies will be instrumental in ensuring the successful implementation of SMRs on ships. This collaboration aims to harness these capabilities to create innovative ship designs that can significantly reduce emissions compared to traditional carbon-based fuels.

Industry Momentum and Regulatory Alignment

The maritime industry is increasingly considering nuclear energy as a viable option for reducing its environmental impact. This growing interest is reflected in the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) Maritime Safety Committee (MSC) endorsement of recommendations to revise the Code of Safety for Nuclear Merchant Ships. These amendments are intended to incorporate advancements in nuclear technology, including SMRs, which have emerged since the code’s initial implementation.

A Step Towards Decarbonization

Both Blykalla CEO Jacob Stedman and ABB Marine and Ports president Juha Koskela expressed optimism about the collaboration. Stedman highlighted the unique opportunity for maritime nuclear propulsion, while Koskela emphasized the significant potential of SMRs to drive decarbonization in the shipping sector. This partnership represents a critical building block in realizing the vision of nuclear-powered shipping and advancing the industry’s journey towards sustainability.