Re-examination of the Development Issues of Inland Nuclear Power in China
Yingjie Wang , Xianke Peng , Wanguang Zhao , Mi Zhou , Gang Su , Qi Luo , Qizhen Ye , Xiangeng Zhao
Strategic Study of CAE ›› 2025, Vol. 27 ›› Issue (6) : 180 -191.
Re-examination of the Development Issues of Inland Nuclear Power in China
Nuclear energy, characterized by cleanliness, low carbon emissions, stability, high efficiency, high energy density, and suitability as a baseload power source, has become an essential element of the energy strategies in many countries. The development of nuclear power is of crucial importance for China’s transition in energy structure. Despite global trends and China’s leading position in installed nuclear capacity, the country has not yet commenced the construction of nuclear power plants in inland regions. There is an urgent need to clarify the feasible pathway and development plans for inland nuclear power. This study systematically analyzes and makes the case for resuming the construction of inland nuclear power plants, focusing on two key dimensions—strategic necessity and technical feasibility—in conjunction with the newly released “Regulations for environmental radiation protection of nuclear power plant” (GB 6249—2025). The study concludes that developing inland nuclear power is both highly necessary and urgent in terms of safeguarding national energy security, constructing a new power system, and advancing regional strategic implementation. Concurrently, China’s mature third-generation pressurized water reactor technology provides reliable assurance of environmental safety for inland sites, demonstrating technical feasibility for inland deployment. It is recommended that inland nuclear power be included in the 15th Five-Year Plan, with the establishment of a dedicated research program focused on the treatment and discharge technologies for tritium and carbon-14 nuclides, and that demonstration projects for inland nuclear power be initiated in a timely manner. Meanwhile, supporting laws, regulations, and public communication mechanisms should be continuously improved. Promoting the scientific and orderly development of inland nuclear power will inject strong momentum into China’s transition toward green and high-quality energy development.
inland nuclear power / emission standards / defense in depth / tritium / carbon-14 / extreme accident
Chinese Academy of Engineering project "Research on China's Energy Security Strategy"(2022-JB-05)
"Research on Innovative Development Strategy of Inland Nuclear Power and Nuclear Technology Application"(2023-HYZD-03)
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