The first pouring of concrete for the nuclear island security of Unit 1 of the Lufeng nuclear power plant in Guangdong marks the start of an ambitious energy project in China . This development is part of the country’s strategy to expand its nuclear infrastructure and reduce its dependence on coal.
A key step in the expansion of the Lufeng nuclear power plant
China General Nuclear (CGN) announced that the first concrete was poured at 11:36 a.m. on February 24 , formally marking the start of construction of Unit 1. Based on the CAP1000 design, a third-generation reactor adapted from Westinghouse’s AP1000 , the unit is expected to improve the efficiency and security of the country’s energy supply.
China’s National Development and Reform Commission approved the construction of four CAP1000 reactors at Lufeng in 2014. However, the go-ahead for units 1 and 2 did not come until August 2023, while approval for units 3 and 4 is still pending.
A key project for energy independence
The Lufeng complex will have six reactors in total. Units 5 and 6, using the Hualong One technology developed in China, are already under construction from 2022 and 2023. CGN estimates that when all units are operational, the plant will generate approximately 52 TWh per year , which will reduce coal consumption by almost 16 million tonnes and reduce CO₂ emissions by more than 42 million tonnes.
This development reinforces China’s position as a leader in nuclear energy development, consolidating its commitment to reducing carbon emissions and using safer and more efficient technologies for the country’s energy future.
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Source and main photo: World Nuclear News
Internal photo: Westinghouse
