China Proposes Decarbonization Strategy Transitioning Coal Plants to Nuclear Power

The China Energy Engineering Group Co. (CEEC), a prominent state-owned energy infrastructure company, has introduced an ambitious decarbonization strategy aimed at transforming retiring coal-fired power plants into nuclear energy facilities.

This initiative, known as the "coal to nuclear" (C2N) strategy, seeks to capitalize on the existing infrastructure of coal plants—including land, grid connections, and water resources—to accelerate the development of new nuclear power generation capabilities. This shift comes at a crucial time, as government data indicates that China has around 1.2 terawatts of coal-fired power capacity, with approximately 100 gigawatts slated for retirement within the next five years.

By repurposing coal plants, the C2N plan aims to reduce costs and streamline the construction process for nuclear reactors, addressing the challenges of site selection and regulatory hurdles commonly associated with new nuclear projects. The initiative aligns with President Xi Jinping's commitment to curtail the coal industry and transition towards cleaner energy sources, as China grapples with its status as the world's largest emitter of greenhouse gases.

The push for nuclear energy is underscored by China's rapid reactor construction pace, outpacing that of the United States. China currently operates 58 reactors and has 33 more under construction, with the government approving as many as 11 new reactors annually. Analysts predict that by 2030, China will surpass the U.S. to become the leading nuclear power generator.

CEEC's research indicates that the transition to nuclear energy could span several decades, particularly if advancements in nuclear fusion technology materialize. The group has expressed optimism about integrating fourth-generation reactors, which would likely adhere to stricter safety protocols and garner public acceptance, especially in densely populated coastal regions.

Despite the urgency of this transition, recent reports reveal that China operates its highest number of coal-fired units since 2016, even amid a significant expansion of renewable energy resources. In 2024, the country invested an impressive $940 billion into its renewable sector, further highlighting the dual approach of maintaining coal power while expanding nuclear and renewable capabilities.

Eastern China, with its high electricity demand and limited land availability for new power plants, is identified as a prime location for C2N conversions. Advanced reactor designs, such as high-temperature gas-cooled reactors (HTGRs), promise to require less land and water than their coal counterparts, facilitating a smoother integration into existing infrastructure.

The CEEC study emphasizes the importance of public acceptance for the successful rollout of the C2N initiative. Establishing transparent communication and engaging the public in discussions about nuclear energy's safety and benefits will be critical. Additionally, the introduction of thorium-based molten salt reactors, which China has already begun testing, could further enhance the country's nuclear landscape, providing high efficiency and safety.

CEEC’s proposal represents a significant stride towards decarbonization while preserving valuable infrastructure, particularly along China's economically vital coastal regions. As the nation navigates its energy transition, the C2N strategy could serve as a vital framework for balancing energy needs with environmental goals.