First Fourth-Generation Nuclear Reactor is Operational in China

The world’s first fourth-generation nuclear reactor has begun commercial operations in the Chinese province of Shandong. The National Energy Administration and China Huaneng Group reported this on December 5, 2023.

This new type of nuclear power plant should bring significant improvements, which particularly include much more efficient use of fuel, greater safety, even in the event of serious accidents, and minimization of slag.

Thus, the Shidowan plant opened a high-temperature gas-cooled reactor (HTGR), for which China owns all intellectual property rights and which was made through the cooperation of China Huaneng Group, Tsinghua University, and China National Nuclear Corporation.

According to the Chinese Xinhua News Agency, which reported the words of the plant’s head, Zhang Zuoyi, also head of the Institute of Nuclear Energy and the department studying new energy technologies at Tsinghua University, “HTGR is an advanced reactor, characterized by fourth-generation nuclear technology, a fundamental development of nuclear energy. With safety being a key feature, the reactor is able to maintain a safe state and avoid fusion or release of radioactive materials. This capacity is maintained even in the event of a complete loss of cooling capability without any intervention.”

The construction of the Shidowan HTGR nuclear power plant began in December 2012, and the reactor produced the first power in December 2021. More than 500 specialized companies participated in the project. Production took place using 90% of Chinese materials and technologies.

According to what the Chinese press agency highlights, “the commercial operation of the nuclear power plant is of great importance to promote the safety and scientific, technological and innovative capabilities of nuclear energy development in China.”