South China begins construction of new nuclear power reactor

South China begins construction of new nuclear power reactor as it aims to cut coal use and emissions.

The construction of a new reactor at a nuclear power project in Lufeng, Guangdong Province, commenced on Monday, as announced by China General Nuclear Power Group (CGN).

The No. 1 reactor, which utilizes the CAP1000 design—a third-generation pressurized water reactor—will feature modular construction, digital building techniques, and automated welding to enhance both safety and economic efficiency.

The project plans to include a total of six reactors. Construction of the No. 5 and No. 6 reactors began in 2022 and 2023, respectively, using China’s domestically developed third-generation Hualong One nuclear technology.

Upon full operation of all six reactors, the project is projected to generate approximately 52 billion kilowatt-hours of electricity annually. This would be equivalent to saving 15.77 million tonnes of standard coal and cutting carbon dioxide emissions by around 42.69 million tonnes each year, according to CGN.