# Floating Nuclear Startup Bluecore Secures $50M for Maritime Reactors California-based company aims to power ports and datacenters with compact floating nuclear plants. - **Source:** [www.theregister.com - Articles](https://brifing.si/source/2c34ea50-d341-4a10-925d-12c012a9ad10) - **Published:** 2026-09-08 - **Topic:** [Business](https://brifing.si/c/business) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/aa770ed4-cc87-49d9-afc3-c92d97c46f50 ## Innovative Energy Solution Bluecore Energy has raised $50 million in seed funding to develop floating nuclear power plants targeting ports and coastal infrastructure. The California-based startup's compact design aims to generate 10 MWe continuously using light-water reactor technology. Their system requires refueling only once every few years, offering reliable power to energy-intensive locations. The funding round was led by Silverton Partners and includes $10 million from earlier pre-seed investments. ## Technical Development Bluecore is currently developing a non-fueled, electrically heated reactor prototype at its Port of Long Beach headquarters. The company has secured its first barge and is testing monitoring and control systems. Their maritime reactors could be deployed offshore and connected via subsea cables, serving AI datacenters and remote coastal areas. The technology builds on decades of US Navy nuclear experience, with team members including former submarine officers. ## Regulatory Landscape Bluecore has begun discussions with the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission and Coast Guard, who recently signed an agreement for overseeing floating nuclear plants. While the NRC is prepared to license maritime reactors under existing rules, California's restrictions on new nuclear plants pose challenges. The company's progress aligns with the IAEA's new ATLAS initiative and Department of Energy's push for atomic energy expansion to meet growing power demands. ## Market Potential The startup sees opportunities in powering ports, AI datacenters, and remote coastal communities like those in Alaska. Bluecore claims its approach could open new markets for nuclear generation beyond traditional grid connections. Founder Kofi Asante emphasizes their focus on delivering zero-emission energy quickly and safely. The team includes veterans from SpaceX, Northrop Grumman, and other tech leaders, bringing diverse expertise to the ambitious project. ## Industry Context Floating nuclear plants aren't entirely new - Russia operates the 70 MWe Akademik Lomonosov, though Bluecore's design is more compact. The US has extensive maritime nuclear experience dating to 1955 with the USS Nautilus submarine. Today, all US aircraft carriers are nuclear-powered. Bluecore's challenge lies in adapting this proven technology for civilian energy markets while addressing public concerns about waterborne reactors. ## Implementation Timeline Bluecore remains years from commercial deployment, having yet to build a fueled reactor or secure operational approvals. Their Long Beach proposal must navigate California's nuclear restrictions. The company plans to use the new funding for engineering, testing, and pursuing regulatory clearances. Successful development could provide a template for future floating nuclear solutions worldwide. ## Strategic Partnerships Bluecore has attracted investment from prominent institutions in both nuclear and maritime sectors. The company's leadership includes executives with experience at major corporations like Toyota, Rivian, and Uber. These connections could prove valuable for future commercialization and scaling efforts. The startup's ability to assemble such a high-profile team signals strong industry confidence in their vision. ## Energy Future Bluecore's floating nuclear plants represent a potential breakthrough for clean, reliable energy in coastal regions. As demand grows from AI and other energy-intensive industries, innovative solutions like this could become increasingly vital. The company's progress will test both technological feasibility and public acceptance of decentralized nuclear power. Success could reshape how we think about energy infrastructure near waterways worldwide. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.theregister.com/systems/2026/09/08/floating-nuclear-startup-bluecore-lands-50m-funding-before-setting-sail/5295032 — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._