China approves building of 10 new nuclear power units for $27 billion
China is significantly expanding its nuclear power capacity with the approval of 10 new generating units across five operational plants, costing an estimated 200 billion yuan. This expansion, utilizing domestic technologies, aims to boost nuclear power's contribution to China's energy mix from 5% in 2024 to 10% by 2040. With a record investment of 146.
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China's State Council has approved the construction of 10 new nuclear generating units, according to a report from government-backed media The Paper late on Sunday, which estimated the total outlay at 200 billion yuan ($27.44 billion).That continues the pace of expansion of the past few years, with 10-11 units having been approved annually in 2022-2024.The newly approved projects, which all use domestic technologies, represent expansions at five operational nuclear power plants: Fangchenggang in Guangxi, Sanmen in Fujian, Haiyang in Shandong, Xiapu in Chongqing, and Taishan in Guangdong.China's investment in nuclear power engineering and construction rose to a record high last year of 146.9 billion yuan, the China Nuclear Energy Association said in its annual white paper, also released on Sunday.As of the end of 2024, China had 57 units in operation with an installed capacity of close to 60 gigawatts, according to the white paper.By 2030, China is forecast to reach the top spot globally for installed nuclear capacity, the report forecast. Currently, it's in third place after the U.S. and France.Nuclear made up close to 5% of China's power generation in 2024 and is expected to rise to 10% by 2040.China has achieved 100% domestic production of key nuclear power equipment, the white paper said, and will accelerate self-reliance while continuing to promote international cooperation, especially with major nuclear countries and Belt and Road nations.
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