China approves 11 new reactors amid continued expansion of nuclear energy
China has just taken a big step in boosting its nuclear energy capacity, with the State Council approving five major nuclear projects that include a total of 11 reactors, according to World Nuclear News. This decision is part of China's ongoing efforts to diversify its energy sources, with these new reactors set to produce both electricity and industrial heating.
Xuwei plant to pioneer new nuclear technology
One of the standout projects is the Xuwei plant in Jiangsu province. The China National Nuclear Corporation (CNNC) says this unit will be the first in the world to combine a high-temperature gas-cooled reactor with a pressurized water reactor. This means the plant will not only generate electricity but also provide industrial steam, which is a significant advancement in nuclear technology. When fully operational, the Xuwei plant is expected to supply 32.5 million tonnes of steam each year and produce over 11.5 billion kilowatt-hours of electricity. CNNC estimates that this could save 7.26 million tonnes of standard coal and cut carbon dioxide emissions by 19.6 million tonnes annually.
Xuwei plant will be the first in the world to combine a high-temperature gas-cooled reactor with a pressurized water reactor
In addition, more nuclear projects have been approved for China General Nuclear (CGN) and the State Power Investment Corporation (SPIC), according to World Nuclear News. CGN will build reactors at several locations, including the Zhaoyuan, Lufeng, and San'ao plants, while SPIC is set to construct two reactors in the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. This will be SPIC’s first nuclear venture in that area.
China nuclear power development
China's commitment to expanding its nuclear capabilities is clear from the increasing number of reactors approved each year. Between 2019 and 2023, the country approved a steady stream of new reactors, showing a consistent and safe growth in this sector, as reported by World Nuclear News.
At a recent meeting on August 19, the State Council stressed that safety is the foundation of China's nuclear power development. They highlighted the need to keep improving nuclear safety technology, enhance risk prevention, and ensure strict oversight to maintain the safety of all nuclear operations.
China operates 56 nuclear reactors and 27 more are under construction
Currently, according to the World Nuclear Association, China operates 56 nuclear reactors with a total capacity of 54.3 gigawatts (GW). There are also 27 more reactors under construction, which will add another 32.5 GW to the country's energy capacity, underscoring China’s ambitious plans for its nuclear future.
Source: World Nuclear News (WNN)
