China is on the verge of a groundbreaking achievement in nuclear energy. The world’s first commercial small modular reactor (SMR), known as Linglong One (ACP100), is nearing completion and is poised to power approximately 526,000 homes. This innovative project signifies a major step forward in China’s pursuit of clean, reliable energy and its commitment to reducing carbon emissions.
Linglong One: A “Nuclear Power Bank” Unveiled
The Linglong One, also referred to as ACP100, is a cutting-edge, third-generation small pressurized water reactor (PWR) independently developed by the China National Nuclear Corporation (CNNC). It has garnered international recognition as the first SMR to pass a safety review by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in 2016, earning it the nickname “nuclear power bank”.
Key Features of Linglong One
- Miniaturization: SMRs like Linglong One are significantly smaller than traditional nuclear reactors, making them easier to transport and install.
- Modularity: The modular design allows for factory fabrication and on-site assembly, reducing construction time and costs.
- Integration: SMRs integrate various components into a single unit, streamlining operations and enhancing safety.
- Passive Safety Systems: These systems rely on natural forces like gravity and convection to shut down the reactor in emergencies, minimizing the risk of accidents.
Powering Homes and Reducing Emissions
Once operational, each Linglong-1 unit will generate 125,000 kilowatts of power, with an annual electricity output of 1 billion kilowatt-hours. This is sufficient to meet the electricity needs of 526,000 households, or approximately 1 million people. The environmental benefits are also substantial, with an estimated reduction of 880,000 tons of carbon dioxide emissions per year, equivalent to planting 7.5 million trees.
A Multipurpose Energy Solution
Beyond electricity generation, Linglong One is designed for a variety of applications, including:
- Heating: Providing district heating for residential and commercial buildings.
- Steam Production: Supplying steam for industrial processes.
- Seawater Desalination: Converting seawater into potable water, addressing water scarcity issues.
Construction and Timeline
The Linglong One project has been under development since 2010, with significant milestones achieved in recent years:
- July 2019: Construction officially began at the Changjiang site in Hainan Province.
- July 2021: The first concrete was poured.
- December 2022: Equipment installation work commenced.
- February 2024: The outer containment dome was successfully hoisted into place.
- March 2025: The first of four main pumps was shipped to the construction site.
- April 2025: The first main pump was installed.
- May 2025: System debugging operations are progressing steadily, with active preparations underway for the unit’s cold functional tests.
- 2026: The reactor is scheduled to enter service after a 58-month construction period.
China’s Nuclear Ambitions
The Linglong One project is a key component of China’s broader energy strategy, which aims to reduce its dependence on fossil fuels and increase the share of renewable and nuclear energy. The country has set ambitious goals for nuclear capacity, aiming to reach 70 GW by 2025 and 200 GW by 2035. This will require significant investments, estimated at $370–440 billion over the next 15 years.
A Leader in Nuclear Innovation
China has emerged as a global leader in nuclear energy, driven by technological advancements, strong government support, and strategic international partnerships. The country has 57 operational reactors and 30 more under construction, positioning nuclear energy as a key element of its national strategy.
Hualong One
In addition to SMRs, China has also made significant progress in developing advanced reactor technologies, such as the Hualong One, a domestically designed third-generation reactor.
Global Implications
The successful deployment of Linglong One could have significant implications for the global nuclear industry. SMRs offer several advantages over traditional reactors, including:
- Enhanced Safety: Passive safety systems reduce the risk of accidents.
- Reduced Construction Time: Modular construction allows for faster deployment.
- Lower Costs: Smaller size and modularity can lead to cost savings.
- Flexible Deployment: SMRs can be deployed in a wider range of locations, including remote areas and industrial parks.
A Model for Other Countries
The Linglong One project could serve as a model for other countries looking to develop SMR technology. The IAEA has praised China’s progress in SMR research and development, noting that it provides an efficient and cost-effective energy solution for developing countries.
Challenges and Opportunities
While SMRs offer many advantages, there are also challenges to overcome, including:
- Regulatory Frameworks: Establishing clear and consistent regulatory frameworks for SMR deployment.
- Financing: Securing sufficient funding for SMR projects.
- Public Acceptance: Addressing public concerns about nuclear safety and waste disposal.
Despite these challenges, the potential benefits of SMRs are significant, and China’s Linglong One project is paving the way for a new era of nuclear energy.
Linglong One: A Closer Look at the Components
Reactor Building
The reactor building for the ACP100 consists of three key parts:
- Internal Structure: Provides support for the reactor and other components.
- Steel Containment Shell: A sealed steel structure that prevents the release of radioactive materials in the event of an accident.
- Outer Concrete Shielding Shell: Provides additional protection and shielding.
Main Control Room
The main control room acts as the central nervous system for the plant. It is equipped with advanced digital control systems that allow operators to monitor and control the reactor’s operations.
Main Pumps
The main pumps are responsible for circulating coolant through the reactor core. The ACP100 uses shielded main pumps, which are designed to meet stringent safety requirements.
Environmental Impact
The Linglong One project is expected to have a positive impact on the environment by reducing carbon emissions and promoting energy conservation. The reactor is designed to operate safely and efficiently, minimizing the risk of accidents and environmental damage.
The Future of Nuclear Energy
China’s Linglong One project represents a significant step forward in the development of small modular reactors. SMRs have the potential to play a major role in the future of nuclear energy, providing a clean, reliable, and affordable source of power for homes and businesses around the world. As more countries explore the benefits of SMR technology, China’s experience with Linglong One will be invaluable in shaping the future of nuclear energy.
