China proposes nuclear-powered floating island to reshape global shipping

Jiangnan Shipyard, a subsidiary of China State Shipbuilding Corporation, has unveiled a blueprint for a colossal, nuclear-powered floating island designed to revolutionize global shipping. This ambitious project envisions a massive structure that will function as a container transfer terminal and a charging station for vessels.

The proposed floating terminal will harness the power of advanced molten salt reactors. These reactors use liquefied salt as both fuel and coolant, enabling them to store substantial amounts of thermal energy and operate without the need for water-based cooling systems. Jiangnan Shipyard stated that the complex would become a "new ecosystem for zero-emission ocean container logistics" and offer a "groundbreaking solution for the global shipping industry’s carbon neutral transformation."

This green marine transport hub concept, integrating shipping, port operations, energy production, and transshipment, was presented at the Posidonia International Shipping Exhibition in Greece. Engineers at the shipyard have been actively developing nuclear-powered vessels, including a cargo ship concept announced last year designed to be powered by a thorium-based molten salt reactor with a capacity for 25,000 shipping containers.

According to Jiangnan Shipyard's presentation, the floating island complex will feature a "zero-carbon heart of the hub." This central platform will house a molten salt reactor, alongside solar panels, a wind turbine, a hydrogen production and green-fuel synthesis module, and an electricity supply module, all contributing to its self-sustaining and environmentally conscious design.