全球唯一突破！甘肃民勤钍基堆实现钍铀转换，能源革命有了新玩法

Core Viewpoint - The announcement of the successful operation of a 2 MW liquid fuel thorium molten salt experimental reactor in Gansu marks a significant breakthrough in China's fourth-generation nuclear energy sector, showcasing a strategic leap in technology [1][3]. Group 1: Technological Breakthrough - The experimental reactor is the only one globally that has achieved thorium fuel loading and is currently operational [1][6]. - This achievement is not merely a technical upgrade but represents a strategic advantage for China in the nuclear energy landscape [3][11]. Group 2: Resource Advantage - China has a significant resource advantage with over 1.4 million tons of proven thorium reserves, accounting for nearly three-quarters of the global total, which is often extracted alongside rare earth elements [9][11]. - In contrast, China relies heavily on imported uranium, with over 80% of its needs met through imports, highlighting the importance of developing thorium-based technology [5][9]. Group 3: Development Roadmap - The development plan includes building a 10 MW modular demonstration reactor by 2029 and advancing to a 100 MW power station by 2035, focusing on regions rich in thorium resources [11][13]. - The successful operation of the 2 MW reactor is a critical first step in this roadmap, aimed at gathering essential data for future developments [11][13]. Group 4: Economic Implications - The cost of nuclear power in China has halved over the past decade, contrasting with rising costs in the U.S., positioning low-cost electricity as a significant advantage for China's economic development [19][20]. - The increasing demand for electricity, particularly from industries like AI, underscores the importance of cost-effective energy solutions like thorium molten salt reactors [22][24]. Group 5: Global Energy Dynamics - The advancement in thorium molten salt technology could potentially reshape global energy dynamics, reducing the importance of oil and impacting the oil-dollar system [26][28]. - Historical precedents show that energy revolutions have been pivotal in shifting global power, suggesting that China's technological progress in this area may lead to a reconfiguration of international order [24][30].