Port of Long Beach partners with MARAD on nuclear ship power

The Port of Long Beach became the first U.S. seaport to sign a memorandum of cooperation with the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Maritime Administration (MARAD) to explore small modular reactor (SMR) technology for powering commercial vessels and other maritime assets. Port CEO Dr. Noel Hacegaba said the partnership leverages federal leadership and private‑sector innovation to develop safe, scalable nuclear power for the next generation of shipping, supporting the port’s goal to double container volume by 2050.

The non‑binding agreement adds to the port’s lease with BlueCore Energy, which will assemble and test maritime power modules, and involves collaboration with the U.S. Coast Guard, Department of Energy and Nuclear Regulatory Commission to define safety standards, operational protocols and inspection processes for SMR‑powered ships arriving at U.S. ports.