Summary of Key Points
On July 31, the State Council approved four nuclear power projects: Zhejiang Jinqimen Phase II, Guangdong Taipingling Phase III, Liaoning Zhuanghe Phase I, and Shandong Laiyang Phase I, totaling 8 units with a total investment of over 160 billion yuan. These units will be constructed by three state-owned enterprises—CNNC, CGN, and State Power Investment Corporation (SPIC)—using two fully independent third-generation nuclear power technologies: “Hualong One” (including version 2.0) and “Guohe One.” Together with the 49 units approved since 2022 (with a total investment of nearly one trillion yuan), this marks a new phase of scaled, safe, and orderly development for China’s nuclear power industry.
Detailed Analysis
1. The Projects Approved This Time: Three Enterprises Sharing the Workload, Two Technologies Taking the Lead
The four projects approved this time involve eight units, with each of the three major nuclear power companies undertaking specific tasks:
- CNNC Group: Responsible for Zhejiang Jinqimen Phase II (2 units) and Liaoning Zhuanghe Phase I (2 units), both using Hualong One technology.
- CGN: In charge of Guangdong Taipingling Phase III (2 units), employing the more advanced Hualong One 2.0 version (“third-generation plus” technology).
- SPIC: Undertaking Shandong Laiyang Phase I (2 units), using its own developed Guohe One technology.
In short, each company is responsible for a portion of the work, with two domestically developed technologies playing a central role, without relying on foreign technology.
2. Why the Surge in Nuclear Power Construction Now? The Urgency of Energy Transformation
The sudden approval of so many nuclear power projects is driven by two main issues:
- Carbon Reduction Pressure: To achieve the “dual carbon” goals (carbon peak by 2030 and carbon neutrality by 2060), it is necessary to reduce reliance on coal and oil-fired power, which are polluting. Nuclear power is a stable and clean energy source that does not emit carbon dioxide.
- Power Shortages: During the summer peak electricity demand period, wind and solar power are affected by weather conditions and are unreliable. Nuclear power can provide a steady supply 24/7, addressing this shortcoming in the power grid.
- Technological Maturity: China’s own nuclear power technologies have proven reliable; for example, Hualong One has already seen 10 units in operation, ensuring safety and readiness for large-scale deployment.
3. How Advanced Are These Domestic Technologies? Hualong and Guohe Are Global Leaders
The two technologies used this time are completely independently developed by China:
- Hualong One: A third-generation technology jointly developed by CNNC and CGN, with 10 units in operation and 37 under construction globally, making it the most widely adopted third-generation nuclear power technology. This technology has also spurred the development of a complete industrial chain involving over 6,000 related enterprises.
- Hualong One 2.0 Version: An upgraded “third-generation plus” version that is safer and more efficient, capable of withstanding stronger earthquakes and tsunamis.
- Guohe One: A third-generation technology developed by SPIC, also with independent intellectual property rights, suitable for various power generation scenarios.
These technologies signify a shift from China being a follower in the nuclear power industry to a leader, with the potential to export these technologies and earn foreign exchange.
4. What Benefits Can the 160 Billion Yuan Investment Bring?
The investment of over 160 billion yuan will have significant positive effects:
- Economic Growth: Nuclear power construction requires a large amount of steel, cement, and equipment, creating jobs in related industries such as construction, installation, and operation.
- Industrial Chain Upgrading: Domestic companies can now master core technologies for high-end equipment (such as nuclear pumps, valves, and control systems) through scaled production, improving manufacturing capabilities.
- Long-Term Benefits: Once the nuclear power plants are operational, they will provide stable electricity for decades, not only meeting domestic demand but also helping to stabilize electricity prices due to lower fuel costs.
5. Is It Safe? Safety Is a Top Priority Even with Large-Scale Development
There are concerns about nuclear safety, but the news clearly emphasizes “safe and orderly development”:
- Technical Aspects: Third-generation nuclear power technologies have multiple safety features, such as thick concrete protective shells to prevent leaks.
- Regulatory Measures: The state has strict standards for the approval, construction, and operation of nuclear power projects, with thorough inspections at every stage.
- Domestic Advantages: Using domestic technologies allows for better control of risks; in case of equipment issues, domestic companies can provide rapid repairs without relying on foreign manufacturers.
Therefore, there is no need to worry too much about safety; China’s nuclear power industry combines safety, cleanliness, and stability.
Conclusion
The approval of these eight nuclear power projects represents an important step in China’s energy transformation. By using domestically developed technologies, China reduces its dependence on foreign sources, boosts the economy, addresses power shortages, and contributes to achieving its dual carbon goals. In the coming years, nuclear power is expected to become a key component of China’s energy mix, providing residents with a more stable and cleaner supply of electricity.