If the Shidao Bay commercial demonstration project succeeds, China will become the first country in the world to operate a high-temperature gas-cooled reactor (HTGR) nuclear power plant. This first-mover advantage could significantly elevate China’s position in the global nuclear power industry, potentially transforming it from a technology importer into a major exporter of nuclear expertise. China’s nuclear energy sector is entering a golden era, marked by rapid advancements and strategic investments.
Since 2005, the Chinese government has renewed its focus on nuclear power development. The “Tenth Five-Year Plan†initially called for “proper development,†but this was upgraded to “actively develop†in the “Eleventh Five-Year Plan.†More recently, the Communist Party’s “Second Five-Year Plan Suggestions†emphasized “efficiently developing nuclear power while ensuring safety.â€
According to the upcoming new energy industry development plan, China aims to have 86 million kilowatts of nuclear power capacity installed by 2020. Despite currently accounting for only 2% of total electricity generation, China already has 25 units under construction with a total capacity of 27.73 million kilowatts—40% of the global total. The AP1000, a third-generation U.S.-developed reactor, is now widely used in China. If successfully commercialized, it could replace the second-generation plus technology, becoming the dominant future standard.
Beyond national projects, Tsinghua University’s Institute of Nuclear Energy and New Energy Technology is quietly advancing the commercial demonstration of China’s fourth-generation HTGR. While the world knows little about fourth-generation reactors, China has taken a leading role in this field.
Zhang Zuoyi, president of Tsinghua Nuclear Research Institute, stated that if the Shidao Bay project is successful, China would be the first to operate a commercial HTGR, redefining its global nuclear standing. This technological edge could enable China to transition from a technology importer to a major exporter.
Currently, the project awaits a construction permit. After 30 years of research, the HTGR project, initiated under the 863 Program, has reached a critical milestone.
The debate over generations of nuclear technology raises questions: Why do we still use second-generation systems when third-generation ones are being developed? Zhang believes that the generational classification isn’t scientifically accurate. Second-generation plus technology remains dominant, but third-generation reactors are also being built. They don’t necessarily replace older models, as they meet current safety standards.
Lu Feng, a professor at Beijing University, noted that the linear progression of nuclear technology is misleading. In 1999, the U.S. introduced the concept of fourth-generation nuclear systems, emphasizing inherent safety. By 2001, the U.S. established the International Forum for Fourth-Generation Nuclear Energy Systems, proposing six types of advanced reactors, including HTGRs.
HTGRs use helium as a coolant and can produce hydrogen alongside electricity. The U.S. Department of Energy announced in 2009 that the Next Generation Nuclear Plant (NGNP) would adopt HTGR technology, aiming to expand nuclear energy beyond power generation into industrial applications.
Zhang explained that HTGRs are inherently safer because their design allows them to avoid meltdowns without water cooling. Oak Ridge National Laboratory praised the technology for its safety and efficiency, comparable to thermal power plants.
China’s lead in HTGRs dates back to the 1940s, though early U.S. efforts were later shifted to Germany. However, due to anti-nuclear sentiment, Germany abandoned the project. Since the 1970s, Tsinghua University has led China’s HTGR development, supported by the 863 Program.
In 2006, the Shidao Bay HTGR project was listed as a national priority, aiming to start operations in 2013. Compared to pressurized water reactors, HTGRs are simpler, cheaper, and more efficient, with potential for mass production.
Oak Ridge National Laboratory suggested that if China successfully commercializes modular HTGRs, it could lead the global market. However, the U.S. has since invested heavily in the technology, raising concerns about competition.
Despite challenges, Zhang remains optimistic. He believes that once the Shidao Bay project is operational, China will find international markets. Many foreign companies are already interested in adopting the technology.
The project is now awaiting a construction permit, with preparatory work nearly complete. While delays persist, the long-term vision includes a 4 million kilowatt HTGR unit and plans for further commercialization in Hainan and Anhui.
Industry experts remain cautious, noting that commercial viability may take longer than expected. Still, the potential for HTGRs to revolutionize nuclear energy remains strong.
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