China this week began constructing a groundbreaking nuclear energy facility in Xuwei, Jiangsu Province, designed to decarbonize one of the nation's largest petrochemical hubs. The project, developed by the China National Nuclear Corporation (CNNC), marks the world's first integration of third-generation Hualong One reactors with fourth-generation high-temperature gas-cooled reactors to produce industrial steam for chemical processing.
The innovative plant will supply 32.5 million tonnes of steam annually to the Lianyungang petrochemical base while generating over 11.5 billion kWh of electricity. By replacing coal-fired steam production, the facility is projected to reduce annual CO2 emissions by 19.6 million tonnes – equivalent to planting 170 million trees – while cutting standard coal use by 7.26 million tonnes.
CNNC engineers have developed a dual-reactor system where Hualong One reactors heat desalinated water into saturated steam, which is then superheated by gas-cooled reactors to meet industrial requirements. This technological synergy addresses the Lianyungang base's massive hourly demand for 13,000 tonnes of process steam used in critical operations from crude oil distillation to equipment sterilization.
The project comes as the Chinese mainland accelerates its transition to low-carbon industrial solutions, with nuclear innovation playing a key role in achieving dual carbon goals. Industry analysts note this model could be replicated globally, offering energy-intensive sectors a viable path to maintain production while eliminating fossil fuel dependence.
