The Zhangzhou Nuclear Power Plant in China’s Fujian Province has reached a major milestone, with Unit 2 officially entering commercial operation on Thursday. This marks the completion of Phase I of what is set to become the world’s largest Hualong One nuclear power base. The launch follows a successful 168-hour full-power continuous operation test, confirming the plant’s readiness to supply consistent electricity.
Zhangzhou is the first large-scale deployment site for China’s domestically developed Hualong One nuclear technology, showcasing the country’s growing expertise in third-generation nuclear power. Phase I of the project currently includes Units 1 and 2, both now in commercial operation. Unit 1 has already produced over 10.2 billion kilowatt-hours of electricity, underscoring the efficiency and potential of the Hualong One design. Construction for Units 3 and 4 is underway, while preparatory work for Units 5 and 6 is progressing steadily. Once fully operational, the plant is expected to generate around 60 billion kilowatt-hours of clean electricity annually.
Hualong One is a third-generation nuclear reactor independently developed by China, carrying full intellectual property rights. The technology is a significant step in China’s ambition to move from being a major nuclear power nation to a global leader in nuclear energy. Each Hualong One unit has the capacity to generate up to 10 billion kilowatt-hours of electricity per year. This output translates to a reduction of approximately 8.16 million tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions annually—equivalent to avoiding over 3 million tonnes of standard coal consumption.
The strategic importance of the Zhangzhou plant extends beyond energy production. It positions China at the forefront of nuclear technology, with Hualong One now being the third-generation reactor with the largest number of units either in operation or approved for construction globally. The technology combines safety, efficiency, and domestic innovation, providing a platform for both national energy security and international export opportunities.
For the local region, the plant promises reliable electricity supply and a cleaner environment. Its large-scale operation reduces reliance on fossil fuels, aligning with China’s broader goals of carbon neutrality and sustainable growth. Experts note that the successful commissioning of Zhangzhou’s first two units reflects both technical prowess and the country’s ability to manage complex infrastructure projects at scale.
As Units 3 through 6 advance toward completion, Zhangzhou will evolve into a cornerstone of China’s clean energy infrastructure. Analysts highlight that the project demonstrates not only China’s engineering capabilities but also its commitment to addressing climate change through advanced nuclear technology. The Hualong One program, with its robust domestic intellectual property and growing global presence, represents a significant achievement in the global nuclear landscape.
With the start of commercial operation at Unit 2, the Zhangzhou Nuclear Power Plant exemplifies the country’s vision for a sustainable, low-carbon future while reinforcing China’s position as a leader in next-generation nuclear energy.
