Nuclear-powered ships just sailed closer to reality thanks to an odd couple – Bill Gates’ nuclear power startup and the world’s largest shipbuilder.
HD Hyundai, the giant Korean shipbuilder, inked a deal with TerraPower and nuclear firm called Core Power. Their mission? To jointly develop nuclear propulsion for maritime vessels.
Nuclear power gives ships almost limitless endurance. Reactors generate heat that drives steam turbines to run vessels continuously without refueling. Perfect for long journeys.
Over 160 nuclear-powered ships already sail the seas – mainly military subs and aircraft carriers. But the tech could spread to commercial ships too.
That’s why Hyundai is jumping aboard. They’ve eyed nuclear maritime tech for years. And last November, they injected $30 million into TerraPower – the startup led by none other than Microsoft’s Bill Gates.
TerraPower’s molten salt reactor design allows safer, more efficient nuclear power that cuts emissions. Running ships on Gates’ reactors may help shipping slash its carbon footprint.
Nuclear vessels do demand special infrastructure and safety measures. So Hyundai will work with nuclear watchdog IAEA and marine certification groups to craft regulation for ship reactors.
With Hyundai’s shipbuilding brawn and TerraPower’s nuclear brains, the partners hope to accelerate nuclear propulsion’s development and adoption.
“Adding Hyundai’s expertise…illustrates how the shipping industry is moving towards a net-zero future with new nuclear solutions,” said Core Power’s CEO.
Gates’ young firm already attracted whale-sized interest from major shipbuilders. Nuclear-powered commercial ships now seem poised to make a real splash!
