新浪财经·2025-09-12 08:51Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the significant advancements and current status of China's nuclear energy industry, highlighting the transition from second-generation to third-generation nuclear technology and the achievements in safety, efficiency, and environmental impact [5][7][12]. Group 1: Development and Achievements - The Chinese nuclear industry has evolved significantly since the Fukushima incident, entering a new phase of "active, safe, and orderly development" with 26 nuclear units under construction since 2021 [7]. - As of August this year, China operates 58 nuclear units with a total capacity of 61.01 million kW, and 31 units are under construction with a capacity of 37.25 million kW, making it the world's leader in nuclear power capacity [7]. - China's nuclear power plants have maintained a strong safety record, with over 600 years of safe operation and no incidents rated INES level 2 or above [8]. Group 2: Technological Advancements - The "Hualong One" technology, which is China's third-generation nuclear technology, is undergoing upgrades to enhance safety systems and reduce construction costs [10]. - The lifecycle carbon footprint of nuclear energy is significantly lower than that of hydropower, wind, and solar energy, with a carbon footprint factor of only 6.5gCO₂/kWh [12]. Group 3: Economic Impact - The construction of a nuclear power plant typically requires an investment of 10 to 20 billion yuan upfront, with total cash flow over 100 years potentially reaching 600 billion yuan [21]. - Nuclear energy is also being diversified into heating and industrial applications, with significant reductions in coal consumption and carbon emissions reported from existing projects [22][23]. Group 4: Future Prospects - Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) are being developed by multiple organizations, with various designs and applications, including data center power supply and industrial heating [16][17]. - The nuclear technology sector is expected to grow rapidly, with the domestic nuclear technology application industry projected to reach an output value of approximately 890 billion yuan by 2024, growing at a compound annual growth rate of 15.6% [25]. Group 5: Nuclear Fusion - The development of nuclear fusion is progressing well, with expectations that artificial intelligence will significantly shorten the timeline for commercial application [27][28].