HD KSOE wins DNV AiP for SMR-powered 15,000 TEU containership design

Classification society DNV has awarded South Korean shipbuilder HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering (HD KSOE) approval in principle (AiP) for a new 15,000 TEU container vessel design powered by small modular reactor (SMR) technology.

As explained, the design demonstrates the application of SMR technology in a 15,000 TEU container vessel, capable of operating at 24 knots. The vessel concept incorporates a supercritical CO₂-based power generation system, which can provide higher thermal efficiency and a reduced equipment footprint compared to conventional steam-based systems.

DNV has reviewed the conceptual design of the nuclear-powered ship in line with the relevant rules and regulations and the safety levels as outlined in SOLAS Ch. VIII and the IMO Code of Safety for Nuclear Merchant Ships.

“This SMR-powered container vessel concept represents a key milestone in our efforts to explore alternative fuels for decarbonizing shipping. The design focuses intensely on the safety of the vessel and advancing the propulsion system in the application of SMR technology,”Kwangpil Chang, CTO of HD KSOE, commented.

“In addition, we have developed a novel shielding and containment system, which is designed to