China has reached a significant milestone in its pursuit of advanced nuclear energy technology by completing the preliminary design of its first fourth-generation commercial fast reactor, the CFR1000.
The China National Nuclear Corporation (CNNC) announced the achievement at a symposium on advanced nuclear energy development in Fuzhou, the capital of Fujian Province. The CFR1000, with an installed capacity of 1.2 million kilowatts, aligns with the latest requirements for safety, sustainability, and economic performance in nuclear technology.
“The CFR1000 represents a major step forward in our energy development strategy,” said Zheng Yanguo, CNNC’s deputy chief engineer. “It demonstrates our commitment to green and low-carbon development while ensuring energy security.”
Fast reactors, like the CFR1000, utilize fast neutrons to sustain nuclear fission, offering advantages in fuel utilization, waste reduction, and safety. They are recognized globally as key fourth-generation advanced nuclear energy systems.
Among the six reactor types classified internationally as fourth-generation technologies, three are fast reactors: sodium-cooled, gas-cooled, and lead-cooled. Sodium-cooled fast reactors are considered the most mature and promising due to their high breeding ratio and inherent safety features. With over 400 reactor years of operational experience worldwide, they provide a strong foundation for commercial application.
China’s development of the CFR1000 is part of its three-stage nuclear energy development strategy: thermal reactors, fast reactors, and fusion reactors. The country’s first experimental fast reactor was successfully connected to the grid in 2011.
Over the past decade, China has independently developed a full range of core technologies and established a complete industrial chain for large-scale fast reactors. Experts believe that the successful design of the CFR1000 positions China as a leader in next-generation nuclear energy.
“This achievement not only strengthens our energy capabilities but also contributes to global advancements in nuclear technology,” Zheng added.
