Scorpio Tankers teams up with Ampera to explore nuclear energy for zero-carbon maritime solutions, targeting ships and offshore platforms.
Scorpio Tankers, a major oil tanker company listed on the New York Stock Exchange, has signed a strategic partnership with the U.S.-based company Ampera to develop maritime solutions powered by nuclear energy. Under the agreement, supported by an investment of approximately $10 million, the company will explore zero-carbon energy options for ships, offshore platforms, and port infrastructure.
The first target: Floating nuclear platforms
In the initial phase of the collaboration, the development of floating platforms powered by nuclear energy is planned. In the long term, the goal is to introduce commercial vessels that operate on nuclear energy.
Engineering and market power from Scorpio
With a fleet of around 90 tankers, Scorpio Tankers will provide engineering expertise, contribute to regulatory processes, and ensure access to shipping markets for the project. Ampera will develop compact, container-based microreactor technology that utilizes thorium fuel.
New business models are also on the table
While the parties aim to position nuclear energy as an alternative to traditional marine fuels, they will also evaluate commercial approaches such as leasing and 'energy service' models.
Emission pressure is transforming the industry
This step comes at a time when the maritime sector is under pressure to reduce emissions and provide reliable energy for offshore operations. It is noted that microreactors offer a solution that could eliminate carbon emissions while reducing fuel costs and space requirements on vessels.
Emanuele Lauro, Chairman and CEO of Scorpio Tankers, stated, 'Nuclear microreactors have the potential to fundamentally change the energy usage of ships and offshore infrastructure. With this collaboration, we aim to be at the forefront of this transformation.'
Source: SeaNews Türkiye
