In China on the brink of the era of the greatest development of nuclear energy? – Where are new reactors springing up?

When it comes to the state of energy in China, coal still dominates the most, accounting for more than half of the total electricity production. However, nuclear energy plays an increasingly important role, especially in coastal areas where the fastest economic development occurs, primarily due to geographical advantages. For example, China produced a total of 8,636 TWh of electricity in 2021, and coal contributed 5,432 TWh, but that picture will also change.

As in other countries, the need for electricity is growing in China. The country has a modest net export balance of electricity, but its consumption is high, reflecting rapid industrial growth. To tackle environmental challenges, China has set ambitious targets for reducing carbon dioxide emissions and switching to renewable energy sources. According to WNA data, China plans to get 20 percent of its primary energy consumption from non-fossil sources by 2030.

China’s five-year plan (2021-2025) aims to reach 70 GWe of nuclear capacity by the end of 2025. Nuclear energy has a strategic role in China, especially in the coastal areas away from coal mining. China has cooperated with and used nuclear technology from several countries, including France, Canada, Russia, and the United States. Westinghouse AP1000 technology from the US was particularly influential, leading to the development of the CAP1400 and CAP1000 reactors based on this technology.

However, today China has its own advanced nuclear technology after years and years of cooperation and technology transfer with the aforementioned countries, and has implemented experience in several domestic nuclear reactors and technologies. China has a policy of exporting nuclear technology, especially reactors Hualong Onewhich became the main export product in 2015, as stated by the World Nuclear Association (WNA).

There are about 56 operating reactors in the country, and dozens more under construction. China is expanding its nuclear power capacity by building several new nuclear power units.

In Fujian Province, the construction of Ningde Blocks 5 and 6 has begun. These units are part of the second phase of the Ningde Nuclear Power Project and contain Hualong One reactors, a type of third-generation nuclear technology developed in China. Construction officially began on July 28 with the pouring of the first concrete. These new units will add to the site’s four existing reactors, according to World Nuclear News.

In Shandong province, construction of units 1 and 2 of the ShidaoWan plant has also begun. The first concrete for Block 1 was poured on July 28, marking the start of construction. The new units will be Hualong One reactors, built entirely with Chinese technology. The project will include four reactors, and the first two units are expected to be operational by 2029.

In Liaoning Province, construction of Units 1 and 2 of the Xudabao plant has begun. These units will use CAP1000 reactors, based on the Westinghouse AP1000 design. China’s share of clean energy increases with each new reactor, while ensuring a stable energy supply.

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