The city of Long Beach, California, is moving forward with plans to deploy floating nuclear power plants, entering a partnership with startup Bluecore Energy. The initiative aims to power the Port of Long Beach and potentially the wider city with electricity generated by small modular reactors (SMRs) mounted on barges.
Bluecore Energy, founded by CEO Kofi Asante, is focused on creating a new generation of commercial nuclear power applications, drawing on decades of maritime nuclear experience. The company has secured $10 million in funding and established operations at a facility within the port known as Berth 48. The technology involves SMRs designed to provide clean energy.
This development aligns with the Port of Long Beach's strategic goals to double its container volume by 2050. The port recently signed a Memorandum of Cooperation with the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Maritime Administration (MARAD). Under this agreement, the port and MARAD will collaborate on advancing SMR development for powering ports and potentially constructing nuclear-powered vessels. A key aspect of their collaboration involves working with federal agencies to establish the necessary operational protocols, safety standards, and inspection processes for SMR-powered vessels docking at U.S. ports.
Asante stated that the concept of nuclear energy at sea is not novel, emphasizing the opportunity to integrate lessons from historical maritime nuclear operations with modern engineering for commercial uses. The partnership between Long Beach and Bluecore Energy is set to define the framework for the safe integration of this technology. The Port of Long Beach's initiative to enhance its capacity and sustainability is underscored by this ambitious clean energy project.