Construction of the No. 2 power unit at the Xudapu Nuclear Power Plant in northeast China’s Liaoning Province began on Wednesday, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s nuclear energy development.
The No. 2 power unit, with an installed capacity of 1.29 GW, is the fourth unit to start construction at the power plant located in the city of Huludao. It is scheduled to commence operations in 2029, significantly enhancing the region’s power supply.
According to the power plant, the new unit will utilize a third-generation domestically developed pressurized water reactor, boasting improved safety features and enhanced performance. This advancement underscores China’s commitment to adopting cutting-edge technology in its pursuit of clean energy.
Xudapu is the second nuclear power station in northeast China, a heavy-industry heartland that is accelerating its transition toward clean energy sources. With a total investment of 140 billion yuan (approximately $19.6 billion), the power plant is designed to house six pressurized water reactors with a combined installed capacity of 7.6 GW. Upon full completion, it is expected to generate 54 billion kilowatt-hours of electricity annually.
The nuclear power plant is invested in by China National Nuclear Power Co., Ltd., a subsidiary of China National Nuclear Corporation (CNNC). The No. 3 and No. 4 power units commenced construction earlier and are both in the equipment installation phase after successfully placing their domes. The No. 1 power unit began construction in November 2023.
The development of the Xudapu Nuclear Power Plant represents a significant step in China’s efforts to diversify its energy mix and reduce carbon emissions, aligning with global trends toward sustainable energy solutions.
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China's Xudapu nuclear power plant starts new power unit construction
cgtn.com
