China National Nuclear Connects Zhangzhou Nuclear Plant’s First Reactor to National Grid

Key Milestone in China’s Green Energy Transition and Nuclear Innovation
China National Nuclear Corporation (CNNC) has successfully connected the 1.13GW Unit 1 of the Zhangzhou nuclear power plant to the national grid in Fujian Province. This marks a significant achievement in China’s efforts to transition to green energy and expand its nuclear energy capacity. Equipped with the Hualong One third-generation reactor, the newly connected unit is a crucial step in both advancing nuclear reactor technology and meeting the country’s increasing energy demands.

Hualong One Reactor and Its Environmental Impact
Reactor Expected to Reduce Coal Consumption and Carbon Emissions
The Hualong One reactor, co-designed by CNNC and China General Nuclear Power Group, is expected to generate over 10 billion kilowatt-hours of electricity annually, which is enough to supply the energy needs of approximately one million people in moderately developed countries. In addition to its role in meeting electricity demands, this reactor will significantly reduce coal consumption by 3.12 million tonnes per year and cut carbon dioxide emissions by 8.16 million tonnes annually. These contributions are in line with China’s long-term goal of reducing its carbon footprint and achieving carbon neutrality by 2060.

Expansion Plans at Zhangzhou Nuclear Plant
Further Reactors Under Construction, Boosting China’s Nuclear Capacity
The Zhangzhou nuclear power plant is part of an ambitious development plan by CNNC, which involves six Hualong One reactors at the site. Unit 1 is now connected to the grid, but further tests will be conducted to ensure its operational performance before it enters commercial operation. In addition to Unit 1, four other reactors are under construction at the Zhangzhou site. Unit 2, also a 1.13GW Hualong One unit, is expected to come online in 2025, while Phase II, which includes Units 3 and 4 (each 1GW), is already underway, with Unit 4’s construction having started in October 2024. Once fully completed, the Zhangzhou plant is projected to produce 58 billion kilowatt-hours of electricity annually.

Global Impact and China’s Nuclear Ambitions
China’s Growing Role in Global Nuclear Power and Clean Energy
The Zhangzhou plant is owned by CNNC-Guodian Zhangzhou Energy, a joint venture between CNNC and China Guodian. The plant represents a $14 billion investment in China’s nuclear energy sector. The successful connection of Unit 1 also supports China’s broader nuclear goals. By 2035, the country aims to increase its nuclear capacity to 200GW, up from 56.9GW by the end of 2023. This is part of China’s broader strategy to enhance clean energy sources and reduce reliance on fossil fuels, in pursuit of carbon neutrality by 2060.