Core Viewpoint - The U.S. nuclear energy sector is lagging behind China, which has rapidly expanded its nuclear power capabilities, leading to concerns about losing global leadership in this field [1][3]. Group 1: U.S. Nuclear Industry Challenges - The CEO of a major U.S. nuclear company expressed alarm over the country's stagnant nuclear power development, having built only two plants in the last thirty years compared to China's rapid construction of numerous facilities [1][3]. - The U.S. nuclear power industry has not seen significant advancements since the 1970s, with an average age of over 40 years for its 93 nuclear plants, resulting in outdated technology and high maintenance costs [6][11]. - The Three Mile Island accident in 1979 significantly impacted public perception and investment in nuclear energy in the U.S., leading to a long-term decline in new nuclear projects [5][6]. Group 2: China's Nuclear Energy Growth - China, starting its nuclear journey much later in 1991, has successfully developed over 100 operational and under-construction nuclear reactors, showcasing rapid growth and technological advancement [9][11]. - The Chinese nuclear industry has adopted and improved upon foreign technologies, creating its own advanced reactor designs, such as the "Hualong One" and "Guohe One" [9][12]. - The construction efficiency of Chinese nuclear plants is significantly higher, with projects completed in about 56 months, compared to the longer timelines of U.S. projects [12][11]. Group 3: Resource and Supply Chain Dynamics - China has established partnerships for uranium mining, becoming a key player in the supply chain, while the U.S. faces challenges in securing enriched uranium due to reliance on foreign technology, particularly from Russia [16][18]. - The U.S. nuclear industry is at risk of being unable to secure necessary resources, as geopolitical tensions may hinder access to essential materials [16][18].