China Reveals Nuclear-Powered Floating Hub For Zero-Emissions Shipping

Jiangnan Shipyard, a subsidiary of state-owned China State Shipbuilding Corporation, introduced the concept for a nuclear-powered floating hub at the Posidonia International Shipping Exhibition held in Greece.

The platform would function as a container transhipment terminal, a centre for the production of renewable energy and also a charging station for vessels.

Its power source would be a molten salt reactor along with solar and wind energy production systems.

The platform would support the production of hydrogen, synthetic green fuels and electricity. It would generate clean power and fuels like ammonia for terminal operations as well as electric support ships while reducing emissions.

The concept is built on Jiangnan’s 2023 nuclear containership design, which received DNV approval in principle and comes after the company has already secured installation and manufacturing licenses from China’s nuclear safety authorities.

Jiagnan said that the molten salt reactor technology is safe as it is resistant to usual meltdowns, and the coolant solidifies quickly when released, reducing the impact of leaks.

The nuclear floating hub, designed to support international shipping lanes, coastal waterways and cargo transhipment operations, can also be replicated at other ports, given its modular design.