China’s nuclear energy industry is making significant strides, with a recent report revealing that the country can build over 40 nuclear power units at the same time. This development underscores China’s growing capacity in nuclear power and its commitment to advancing clean energy technologies.
According to the China Nuclear Energy Development Report 2025 released by the China Nuclear Energy Association (CNEA), China’s investment in nuclear power construction reached a record high of 146.9 billion yuan (approximately $20.16 billion) in 2024. This marks an increase of 52 billion yuan from the previous year, highlighting the nation’s intensified efforts in independent research and technological innovation.
The introduction of the Hualong One nuclear reactors into mass construction both domestically and internationally has played a pivotal role in expanding China’s nuclear capabilities. Transitioning from single-unit to multi-unit construction, China has achieved significant technological advancements in integrated nuclear power plant construction and dome hoisting technology.
“China has gradually developed full lifecycle construction and operating capabilities in nuclear power engineering, from design and construction to commissioning and commercial operation,” said Cao Shudong, executive vice chairman of the CNEA. “Its construction and management capabilities for multi-unit nuclear power projects are at the forefront internationally.”
The nation’s progress isn’t limited to power generation. China is also pushing boundaries in the comprehensive utilization of nuclear energy, making breakthroughs in urban heating, industrial applications, and medical technology. In the 2024-2025 heating season, the Haiyang, Qinshan, and Hongyanhe nuclear power plants collectively provided heating for over 14 million square meters, delivering substantial economic and social benefits.
In the medical field, China’s production of isotopes has seen impressive progress. For the first time, commercial nuclear reactors were used to mass-produce carbon-14 isotopes, achieving full domestic production in 2024. Additionally, the development of nuclear medical equipment has accelerated, and international cooperation has advanced with new collaborative projects.
“In 2024, China opened 12 nuclear research facilities and experiment platforms to the world, including the China Advanced Research Reactor,” Cao added. “We also launched collaborative projects with Thailand, Bangladesh, Hungary, Poland, and Nigeria in areas like nuclear medicine, nuclear agriculture, and industrial irradiation.”
China’s advancements in nuclear technology not only bolster its energy infrastructure but also contribute to global efforts in clean energy and medical innovation. As the nation continues to invest in nuclear power, it positions itself as a leader in sustainable energy development.
