Summary of Key Developments in China's Nuclear Power Industry
Recent progress in China’s nuclear power sector has accelerated significantly: On one hand, the first domestically developed third-generation nuclear power project, “Hualong One” (Taipingling Phase I in Guangdong), was successfully completed and put into operation, achieving both environmental benefits and technological innovations. On the other hand, the State Council approved the first batch of four nuclear power projects during the 14th Five-Year Plan period, involving a total of eight units with an investment of over 160 billion yuan, which is expected to stimulate an additional 500 billion yuan in industrial activity across the entire supply chain. China currently leads the world in terms of the scale of nuclear power projects under construction, and by 2030, its operational nuclear capacity is projected to surpass that of the United States, making it the global leader in this field. At the same time, China is actively participating in international cooperation on nuclear energy and low-carbon initiatives to help achieve its dual carbon goals.
Detailed Analysis
1. Operation of Taipingling Nuclear Power Plant: The First Hualong One Unit in the Greater Bay Area
The commissioning of Unit 2 at Taipingling on August 3 marked the completion of the first phase of the “Hualong One” project in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area. This unit is quite impressive; it can generate approximately 9 billion kWh of electricity annually, sufficient to meet the needs of nearly one million people, and it also reduces carbon dioxide emissions by 8.3 million tons each year, equivalent to avoiding the burning of about 2.5 million tons of standard coal or the emission reduction from 1.8 million vehicles. Technological advancements include the use of modular lifting methods during construction, which moved high-altitude work to ground level, reducing safety risks and minimizing interference between different construction activities. With all six units at Taipingling completed, annual carbon dioxide emissions could be reduced by another 46.2 million tons, equivalent to planting 128,000 hectares of forest (about the size of 180 West Lakes).
2. Approval of the First Batch of Nuclear Power Projects for the 14th Five-Year Plan: 8 Units with a Total Investment of 160 Billion Yuan
On July 31, the State Council approved four new nuclear power projects: Jinqimen Phase II in Zhejiang, Taipingling Phase III in Guangdong, Zhuanghe Phase I in Liaoning, and Laiyang Phase I in Shandong, totaling eight units. These projects are part of the first batch of nuclear power initiatives for the 14th Five-Year Plan (2026-2030), with each unit costing over 20 billion yuan and a total investment of 160 billion yuan. The nuclear power industry chain is extensive, covering everything from uranium mining and fuel processing to equipment manufacturing (such as reactors and steam turbines), construction, operation and maintenance, and decommissioning. Experts estimate that the 160 billion yuan in direct investment will drive an additional 500 billion yuan in related economic activity, creating numerous jobs in industries such as steel, machinery, and electronics.
3. China Aiming to Lead the World in Nuclear Power Capacity by 2030
China currently has 120 nuclear power units in operation, under construction, or planned for construction, with a total installed capacity of 135 million kilowatts, ranking first globally in this category for several years in a row. During the 14th Five-Year Plan period, another 46 units were approved, further accelerating growth. The goal by 2030 is to have 110 million kilowatts of operational nuclear capacity, while the United States currently has just over 96 million kilowatts in operation (the highest figure globally). The China Nuclear Energy Association predicts that China may surpass the United States as the global leader by 2030, thanks to the localization of its nuclear power technology. China is capable of building 50 units simultaneously, with engineering safety, quality, and progress all meeting international standards.
4. Strategic Value of Nuclear Power: Clean and Stable Energy Source
The importance of nuclear power for China is evident:
- Energy Structure Optimization: It helps replace coal-fired power, reducing carbon emissions and supporting the dual carbon goals.
- Energy Security: Unlike renewable energy sources like wind and solar, which are dependent on weather conditions, nuclear power provides a steady supply of electricity 24/7, compensating for the variability of these sources.
- Regional Development: Nuclear power plays a crucial role in regional development; for example, Guangdong, as a major nuclear power province, has plans to build, start construction, and approve more projects during the 14th Five-Year Plan period to drive economic growth. The Taipingling project will meet the electricity needs of areas like Huidong in Guangdong and support industrial development in the Greater Bay Area.
5. China’s Global Engagement in Nuclear Energy Cooperation
In March, China joined the “Triple Nuclear Initiative,” a declaration initiated by 22 countries aimed at tripling global nuclear power capacity by 2050 to help achieve net-zero emissions. To date, 38 countries have signed on. China’s participation is based on its advanced technology; the “Hualong One” nuclear reactor is independently developed and has been exported to countries like Pakistan. Its capability to build multiple units simultaneously also enhances its influence in the global nuclear energy market. By sharing technology and expertise with other countries, China can contribute to addressing climate change and expand its role in the international nuclear energy sector.
Conclusion
China’s nuclear power industry is transitioning from a major player to a leader, with rapid progress in domestic projects and approval processes, leading the world in scale. The high level of technological autonomy and the strong impact on the industrial chain make it a key driver of economic growth and job creation. For ordinary citizens, this development means cleaner air, more stable electricity supply, and increased employment opportunities—a clear benefit for society as a whole.