China has commenced construction of the Xuwei Nuclear Power Plant in Jiangsu province, a flagship energy project under the nation's 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-2030). The facility will combine a Hualong One pressurized water reactor with a high-temperature gas-cooled reactor, marking the first integration of these technologies in commercial nuclear power generation.
Set to become operational by 2032, the plant will generate 12 billion kWh of electricity annually while supplying industrial steam to nearby chemical production zones. Officials estimate the project will reduce regional coal consumption by 7.26 million tonnes per year and cut CO2 emissions by 19.6 million tonnes – equivalent to planting 170 million trees.
The National Energy Administration emphasized the project's role in meeting China's dual carbon goals, stating: 'This innovation demonstrates our commitment to technological leadership in clean energy while supporting industrial decarbonization.' The design allows flexible power output adjustment to complement renewable energy sources, addressing grid stability challenges.
