China Leads the World in New Nuclear Power Plant Construction
Tokyo, Japan– China has taken the lead in the global nuclear power industry, with over halfof all newly operational nuclear reactors built in the past decade being located within its borders, according to data compiled by the Japan Atomic Industrial Forum and NHK reporting.
Between 2014 and August 2023, a total of 70 new nuclear power plants began operation worldwide. China accountedfor a staggering 38 of these, representing over 50% of the global total. Russia followed with nine new reactors, South Korea with five, and India and Pakistan with four each. This dominance by non-G7 nations is further highlighted by the fact that over 80% of the newly operational reactors are located in countries outside the G7.
China’s rapid expansion of its nuclear power capacity is driven by its commitment to achieving a low-carbon society. While thermal power plants currently account for 70% of China’s electricity generation, the country is actively pursuing nuclear energy as a cleaner and more sustainable alternative.
Meanwhile, Russia, facing economic sanctions from the West, is actively promoting its nuclear power expertise internationally. It has undertaken projects tobuild nuclear power plants in countries like Turkey and India, further solidifying its position as a global leader in the industry.
The combined efforts of China and Russia have propelled the global nuclear power industry forward, making them the dominant players in the field.
The Japan Atomic Industrial Forum notes that the global pace of nuclear powerplant construction had slowed after the 2011 Fukushima Daiichi nuclear disaster in Japan. However, recent events, including the Russian invasion of Ukraine, escalating tensions in the Middle East, and the intensifying effects of global climate change, have led to a renewed focus on ensuring stable electricity supplies. The increasing frequencyof extreme weather events, such as heatwaves, has further underscored the need for reliable energy sources.
These factors, coupled with advancements in artificial intelligence and other technologies, are expected to fuel a surge in global demand for nuclear power in the future.
The resurgence of nuclear power is not without its challenges.Concerns remain regarding the safety of nuclear power plants, the disposal of nuclear waste, and the potential for proliferation of nuclear weapons. However, the growing need for clean and reliable energy sources is driving nations to re-evaluate the role of nuclear power in their energy mix.
As China and Russia continue to lead the wayin nuclear power construction, the global energy landscape is poised for significant transformation. The future of nuclear power will depend on the ability of nations to address the challenges and capitalize on the opportunities presented by this technology.
【source】https://nwapi.nhk.jp/nhkworld/rdnewsweb/v6b/zh/detail/k10014560101000.json
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