中国核能建设打破“成本攀升魔咒”

Core Viewpoint - The nuclear energy sector is experiencing renewed interest globally, with over 30 countries committing to triple their nuclear power capacity by mid-century, and China successfully halving construction costs over the past 20 years, providing valuable lessons for other nations [1][2]. Group 1: Cost Reduction in Nuclear Energy - Historical challenges of rising costs in the nuclear industry have been evident, with the U.S. experiencing a tenfold increase and France nearly tripling costs [1]. - China's experience demonstrates that through strategic measures such as stable regulatory environments, domestic supply chain development, and standardized reactor designs, construction costs can be effectively reduced [2]. - The combination of various measures from the 1990s to 2005 enhanced China's innovation capabilities in nuclear energy, significantly increased production capacity from 2005 to 2010, and accelerated the adoption of advanced safety measures post-2011 [2]. Group 2: Global Nuclear Energy Expansion - The U.S. aims to double its nuclear power capacity by 2050, while China is constructing or planning over 30 reactors, and France has announced plans for 14 new reactors [1]. - Major technology companies like Amazon, Google, and Microsoft are investing in nuclear energy to power their data centers and reduce carbon emissions [1]. - The article emphasizes the need to balance affordability, safety, scalability, investor confidence, and public trust in the expansion of nuclear energy, or it may remain an expensive option globally [3].