Compiled from a report by China Daily on March 13.
China has marked a major milestone in its nuclear energy expansion with the successful grid connection of Unit 1 of the Zhejiang San’ao Nuclear Power Project, the first “Hualong One” reactor in the Yangtze River Delta region.
Operated by China General Nuclear Power Group (CGN) — the nation’s largest nuclear operator by installed capacity — the unit has now entered the load-test trial phase, including power-upward and performance testing. Full commercial operation is expected in the first half of 2026.
Meeting Energy Demand Amid the Intelligent Economy
The timing of this achievement is notable. The Yangtze River Delta has emerged as a hub for intelligent economy development, hosting top-tier artificial intelligence companies such as DeepSeek. Rapid growth in computing power demand has driven a surge in regional electricity consumption, highlighting the need for reliable, large-scale energy infrastructure.
Once completed, the San’ao project will generate over 54 billion kilowatt-hours annually — enough to meet the electricity needs of more than 5 million people. In addition, the plant is projected to replace over 16 million tons of standard coal per year, cutting approximately 50 million tons of CO₂ emissions, underscoring China’s commitment to low-carbon energy transition.
Advancing Hualong One Technology
The “Hualong One” reactor represents China’s third-generation nuclear technology, combining advanced safety, efficiency, and standardization features. Its deployment in the Yangtze River Delta demonstrates not only the country’s growing domestic energy capabilities but also its ability to scale nuclear technology to meet both economic and environmental goals.
CGN emphasized that the successful connection to the grid is a critical step toward full commercial operation, which will further enhance regional energy security and support sustained industrial and technological growth.
Strategic Implications
For international observers, the San’ao project illustrates a dual strategy:
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Energy security for high-demand regions fueled by AI, advanced manufacturing, and digital services.
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Green energy leadership, contributing directly to China’s carbon reduction targets and global sustainability ambitions.
The Yangtze River Delta unit signals China’s accelerating pace in nuclear power deployment, positioning the country as a global leader in clean energy infrastructure while addressing the energy needs of one of its most dynamic economic regions.