Scorpio Tankers has forged a landmark $10 million strategic collaboration with AMPERA, Inc. to develop and commercialize proprietary micronuclear power solutions for the global maritime industry. The partnership focuses on deploying zero-carbon floating nuclear power barges and nuclear-powered vessels to revolutionize marine propulsion and port infrastructure. By combining Scorpio’s marine engineering expertise with AMPERA’s safeguards-by-design reactor technology, the initiative aims to slash fuel costs and eliminate emissions across the shipping sector.
Monaco | April 2, 2026 – In a move that could redefine the energy architecture of the global shipping industry, Scorpio Tankers Inc. has announced a landmark strategic collaboration with AMPERA, Inc. to develop and commercialize micronuclear power solutions.
The partnership, backed by a $10 million investment from Scorpio, aims to deploy “ultra-safe” nuclear-powered maritime energy systems. The roadmap begins with the development of floating nuclear power barges in the near term, eventually scaling to fully nuclear-powered commercial vessels.
A Vision for Zero-Carbon Maritime Power
As the maritime sector faces intensifying regulatory pressure to eliminate carbon emissions, Scorpio Tankers is positioning itself as an early mover in the nuclear renaissance. Unlike traditional decarbonization paths, such as green ammonia or methanol, micronuclear technology offers a high-density, long-duration energy source that requires no refueling for decades.
Emanuele Lauro, Chairman and CEO of Scorpio Tankers, emphasized the transformative nature of the deal:
“This collaboration represents an important step toward the future of clean maritime energy, and our $10 million investment in AMPERA reflects both our conviction in nuclear and our confidence in the team. Nuclear microreactors have the potential to fundamentally change how ships and offshore infrastructure are powered, and we believe this collaboration positions us at the forefront of that transition.”
Technical Deep Dive: The AMPERA Microreactor
Based in the United States, AMPERA is developing a proprietary safeguards-by-design micronuclear reactor. The system is characterized by several breakthrough features:
- Thorium-Based Fuel: Utilizes a subcritical, solid-state reactor design that significantly reduces proliferation risks compared to uranium-based systems.
- Zero Refueling: Designed as a sealed, containerized unit that operates for its entire lifespan without the need for onboard refueling.
- 3D Printed Manufacturing: Employs advanced additive manufacturing to enable rapid, factory-based production and scalability.
- Compact Footprint: The reactor is designed to drastically shrink the engine room footprint, reducing vessel weight and increasing cargo capacity.
Brian Matthews, CEO and Founder of AMPERA, highlighted the alignment between the two firms:
“AMPERA’s ultra-safe reactors are well-aligned with the maritime sector as they could cut fuel costs, reduce weight, improve efficiency, increase capacity and eliminate carbon emissions for shipping companies. We are pleased to team with Scorpio Tankers, which brings deep marine engineering expertise, global commercial reach and maritime regulatory experience.”
The Strategic Framework
The collaboration divides responsibilities to leverage the core strengths of both a technology innovator and a global shipping giant:
| Feature | Scorpio Tankers’ Role | AMPERA’s Role |
| Expertise | Marine engineering, technical design, & regulatory navigation. | Proprietary micro-nuclear reactor technology. |
| Market Reach | Global commercial relationships & maritime infrastructure lead. | Technical configurations for “Power-as-a-Service.” |
| Focus Areas | Commercializing maritime deployment models. | Modular factory production & long-term service agreements. |
Immediate & Long-Term Targets
The partnership has identified four primary pillars for development:
- Floating Nuclear Power Barges: Mobile energy plants to provide offshore or coastal power.
- Nuclear-Powered Commercial Vessels: Direct propulsion for the next generation of tankers and bulkers.
- Offshore/Remote Energy Supply: Serving the energy needs of remote islands and offshore industrial platforms.
- Port and Coastal Infrastructure: Decarbonizing the massive energy demands of global port hubs.
A Strengthening Fleet and a Shifting Market
The announcement comes as Scorpio Tankers continues to optimize its core fleet. The company currently owns 89 product tankers with an average age of 10.1 years. While pivoting toward future tech, Scorpio is also modernizing its current operations:
- Asset Sales: Agreements to sell one LR2 and four MR tankers are expected to close in Q2 2026.
- Newbuildings: The company has a robust order book, including four MRs (2026-2027), four LR2s (2027-2029), and two VLCCs (2028).
Industry analysts note that the International Maritime Organization (IMO)‘s updated Nuclear Code and recent SOLAS Convention revisions (June 2025) have cleared a regulatory path for Small Modular Reactors (SMRs). With this collaboration, Scorpio is betting that the “Power-as-a-Service” model, where shipowners lease nuclear cores rather than managing fuel, will be the key to unlocking commercial nuclear shipping.
About AMPERA, Inc.
AMPERA is a U.S.-based innovator in advanced nuclear technology, specializing in the development of “safeguards-by-design” micronuclear reactors. Their flagship system is a compact, fully containerized unit utilizing thorium fuel in a subcritical, solid-state design that requires no refueling over its operational life. Leveraging proprietary 3D printing manufacturing, AMPERA targets high-growth, off-grid power sectors including AI infrastructure, defense, and maritime. The company focuses on modular, factory-produced energy systems designed for rapid deployment and long-duration, zero-emission power generation.
About Scorpio Tankers Inc.
Scorpio Tankers (NYSE: STNG) is a leading international provider in the marine transportation of refined petroleum products. The Company’s fleet currently consists of 89 product tankers (33 LR2s, 42 MRs, and 14 Handymaxes) with an average age of 10.1 years. As part of its ongoing fleet optimization, Scorpio has entered agreements to sell one LR2 and four MR tankers, with closings expected in Q2 2026. Looking toward future capacity, the Company has a robust newbuilding program including four MRs (delivery 2026–2027), four LR2s (delivery 2027–2029), and two VLCCs (delivery 2H 2028).
Source: Scorpio Tankers