Core Viewpoint - The Shidao Bay High-Temperature Gas-Cooled Reactor Demonstration Project represents a significant advancement in China's nuclear power technology, marking the country's leadership in the development and application of fourth-generation nuclear technology [1][3][20]. Group 1: Project Overview - The Shidao Bay High-Temperature Gas-Cooled Reactor is the world's first commercially operational fourth-generation nuclear power plant, having accumulated nearly 10,000 hours of safe and stable operation since its commercial launch at the end of 2023 [3][20]. - The project is located in Rongcheng, Shandong Province, and is characterized by its innovative safety features, including inherent safety mechanisms that do not rely on human intervention or mechanical systems [5][10]. Group 2: Safety Features - The reactor is designed to allow operators to remain safe for up to seven days in the event of a severe nuclear accident, showcasing its advanced safety protocols [5]. - The use of high-temperature spherical fuel elements, which can withstand temperatures exceeding 1,620°C without significant release of radioactive materials, is a key innovation of this reactor [8][10]. Group 3: Technological Innovations - The reactor employs helium gas as a coolant instead of water, which is a significant departure from previous generations of nuclear reactors, contributing to its inherent safety [10]. - The project has developed unique equipment, such as the steam generator, which is crucial for converting heat into steam for electricity generation, and represents a global first in design and manufacturing [15][16]. Group 4: Collaborative Efforts - The project involved collaboration among various entities, including China Huaneng Group, Tsinghua University, and China National Nuclear Corporation, to overcome numerous technical challenges [14][18]. - Over 500 enterprises and research institutions participated in the project, achieving a domestic equipment localization rate of 93.4%, with over 660 pieces of world-first equipment developed [18][20]. Group 5: Industry Impact - The successful implementation of the Shidao Bay project is seen as a milestone in China's nuclear power development, contributing to the country's goal of becoming a leader in nuclear technology [20]. - The project is part of China's broader strategy to enhance its independent innovation capabilities in the nuclear sector, with plans for further advancements in the upcoming years [20].