The Port of Long Beach has made history by becoming the first U.S. seaport to officially partner with the U.S. Maritime Administration (MARAD) to promote small modular reactor (SMR) technology for commercial shipping. This move aligns with the Trump administration's goal to revive nuclear-powered shipping.
On Wednesday, a nonbinding Memorandum of Cooperation was signed, creating a framework for the Port and MARAD to collaborate on developing nuclear technology for commercial vessels, port operations, and other maritime assets.
This agreement follows a request from MARAD in May for industry input on designing a U.S.-built, commercially viable small modular reactor for the country's marine transportation system. Interest in nuclear propulsion is rising in the shipping industry as there is a growing need to reduce carbon emissions from long-distance shipping, enhance energy security, and improve operational endurance.
Port of Long Beach CEO Noel Hacegaba stated, “This unique partnership with MARAD enables us to combine strong federal leadership with private sector innovation to advance SMR technology as we support the future of shipping safely and securely. We are focused on building the Port of the Future in Long Beach and will maintain our role as leaders in promoting nuclear energy in maritime applications and beyond.”
Maritime Administrator Stephen Carmel noted that this partnership fits within the administration's broader objectives of rebuilding U.S. shipbuilding capacity while enhancing the country's energy capabilities.
America’s Nuclear Shipping Revival Is About More Than Reactors
Carmel went on to say, “Under President Trump and Secretary Duffy's leadership, MARAD is taking significant steps to revitalize U.S. shipbuilding and ensure our national energy independence. This substantial agreement with the Port of Long Beach brings innovative Small Modular Reactor technology into practical testing, keeping our maritime supply chains functioning in any situation while training the next generation of skilled American mariners.”
According to the agreement, the Port and MARAD will collaborate with the U.S. Coast Guard, the Department of Energy, and the Nuclear Regulatory Commission to develop necessary operational protocols, safety standards, inspection procedures, and other best practices for future SMR-powered vessels visiting U.S. ports.
However, the partnership does not allow for the construction of nuclear-powered ships nor does it commit either side to funding, procurement decisions, or the deployment of any specific reactor technology.
This announcement comes alongside the Port's recent lease agreement with BlueCore Energy Inc., which plans to assemble, test, and store maritime power modules at the port, adding private sector involvement to this wider initiative.
Long Beach officials believe this effort supports the port's long-term infrastructure plans. The goal is to double the annual container throughput to 20 million TEUs by 2050, which is likely to significantly increase electricity demand as cargo handling equipment and terminal operations become more electrified.
Frank Colonna, President of the Board of Harbor Commissioners, expressed that this agreement continues the port's tradition of exploring new technologies.
“This Memorandum of Cooperation with MARAD positions the Port of Long Beach to support the development of energy solutions for the goods movement industry while maintaining our status as the leading gateway for trans-Pacific trade,” Colonna said.
The Port of Long Beach hosts two MARAD Ready Reserve Force vessels—SS Cape Island and SS Curtiss—and is recognized as one of 18 Commercial Strategic Seaports that aid military logistics during national emergencies.
This agreement reflects the latest federal initiative to investigate nuclear propulsion for commercial shipping. Recent studies have found that advanced small modular reactors could eliminate carbon emissions from ocean-going vessels and allow ships to operate for decades without needing refueling, although there are still considerable regulatory, public acceptance, and infrastructure challenges to overcome before commercial use becomes viable.