China has launched an innovative nuclear energy project that combines power generation with industrial applications, marking a significant step in clean energy integration. Construction began on January 16, 2026, in Lianyungang, Jiangsu Province, for a first-of-its-kind facility integrating third and fourth generation reactor technologies.
The initial phase will feature two pressurized water reactors alongside a high-temperature gas-cooled reactor, designed to simultaneously meet electricity demands and provide steam for regional petrochemical industries. This dual-purpose approach addresses both energy production and industrial heat requirements through coordinated reactor operation.
China National Nuclear Corporation (CNNC), the project developer, emphasizes this development represents a strategic shift toward diversified nuclear applications. The configuration allows dynamic adjustment of energy output between electrical generation and industrial steam supply based on real-time demand patterns.
This initiative aligns with broader efforts to optimize energy infrastructure along China's eastern industrial corridor while reducing carbon emissions. The project's success could establish new benchmarks for nuclear technology deployment in heavy industry sectors worldwide.
