China, Fujian province: China has brought the first reactors online at what is now the world’s largest nuclear power base, marking a major step in the country’s nuclear energy programme. The project is built around the domestically developed Hualong One reactor and has completed its initial construction phase.
According to China Central Television, Unit 2 of the Zhangzhou nuclear power plant in Fujian province has entered commercial operation. This follows Unit 1, meaning both Phase I reactors are now in service and the site has officially moved from construction to operation.
Unit 2 cleared its final regulatory requirement after completing a 168-hour full-power continuous operation test just after midnight on 1 January. The test confirmed the reactor’s safety and stable performance at full capacity.
Experts say the commissioning is an important milestone for the wider rollout of the Hualong One, China’s third-generation pressurised water reactor. The design plays a key role in reducing emissions, improving energy security, and strengthening China’s position in the global nuclear sector.
With two units running, the Zhangzhou base is expected to generate around 20 billion kWh of electricity each year. This would cut carbon dioxide emissions by about 16 million tonnes annually, equal to replacing more than 6 million tonnes of standard coal.
The Hualong One is a fully Chinese design with complete intellectual property rights. It has received European Utility Requirements certification and passed the UK’s Generic Design Assessment, often cited as signs of its international acceptance.
Each unit can produce up to 10 billion kWh of electricity a year. When all six planned reactors are completed, the site is expected to supply about 60 billion kWh annually, helping improve Fujian’s energy mix and reduce fossil fuel use.
Source: Interesting Engineering
