China Nuclear News Weekly Roundup – 01/12 - 01/18

CNNC & CGN Each Applying to Build Two More HPR1000 Units

CNNC is now applying for units 1&2 of its Zhangzhou NPP project to use the HPR1000 reactor design, while CGN is doing the same for its Taipingling NPP project. The new reactor design being used will be different from those of the demonstration units in Fangchenggang and Fuqing, as it will be the integrated version of CGN and CNNC’s respective HPR1000 designs. Industry insiders believe that 4-6 planned NPP units may receive approval for construction in the near future, though the process will still be prolonged for some time.

Pressurizer of Pakistan’s Karachi Unit 2 Installed

On January 10, 2019, the pressurizer of Karachi Unit 2 (K2), a Chinese-constructed HPR1000 unit, was successfully installed. The pressurizer weighs 104 tons and has a height of 13.8 meters. It was hoisted from the ground at 9:37 a.m. (local time) and was set into place at 4:58 p.m. At this point, K2 is in its installation phase and all of its major milestones have been reached on time or ahead of time.

Hongyanhe Unit 5 Finishes Primary Equipment Installation

According to Mr. Yan Shu, representative for Hongyanhe NPP, Unit 5 has finished installation of its primary equipment in the nuclear island and is now proceeding to install the security system and ancillary system. Hongyanhe 5 uses a Chinese 2G+ ACPR1000 reactor design.

SPIC Holds Conference To Discuss Two Designs for Nuclear Heating Project

From January 10 to 11, SPIC held a project promotion meeting at SNERDI for its nuclear heating demonstration project. Two designs of the demo project, an integrated multi-functional heating reactor and the HAPPY200 reactor design were discussed and compared. Initial findings showed that the two designs have quite different features and different technical or economic advantages. A final plan has not yet been chosen and the conference concluded that both plans need to be further developed and tailored towards market demands. The planned nuclear heating project is expected to be built in Heilongjiang Province.

China Nuclear News Weekly Roundup – 01/05 - 01/11

Haiyang Unit 2 Begins Commercial Operation

On the afternoon of January 9th, the AP1000 at Haiyang Unit 2 completed 168 consecutive hours of operation at full power to fulfil the definition of having formally begun commercial operation. It is also the first Chinese nuclear power unit to reach this primary milestone in the year of 2019 and becomes the 46th operational unit. With its 1025 MWe of power added, China’s installed nuclear power capacity now exceeds 45 MWe. Haiyang Unit 2 is the fourth AP1000 to begin operation in the world, and the last unit from the first batch of Chinese AP1000 construction begun in 2008/2009.

Progress of HPR1000 Units Under Construction:

Fuqing Unit 5 – On January 5th, the third set of hydraulic equipment for Fuqing Unit 5’s RCP was transferred to the nuclear island. This last piece of equipment comprises the last piece of the RCP’s components, which accounted for more than 150 boxes that have been delivered to site. With this, construction of Fuqing Unit 5’s NI now proceeds to the installation stage.

Fuqing Unit 6 – On the afternoon of January 12th, the first steam generator of Fuqing Unit 6 was successfully installed, paving the way for subsequent work, like primary pipe welding. The steam generator took about twenty days to install since it was first pulled into onto the 16.5 m high platform of the reactor building on December 23rd, 2018.

China Nuclear News Weekly Roundup – 12/24 - 01/04

Zero FCDs in 2018 and Outlook for 2019

In the end, the year 2018 witnessed zero new FCDs for Chinese nuclear new builds.

In December 2018, the Shidaowan CAP1400 project was greenlighted to begin construction, but the nuclear island’s first barrel of safety-related concrete has yet to be poured. The latest information indicates that construction will begin soon (but no official date has been publicized). With the first wave of AP1000 units except Haiyang Unit 2 all in commercial operation, preparation for further approved AP1000 sites is under way. Sanmen Units 3&4, Haiyang Units 3&4, Xudapu Units 1&2, and Lufeng Units 1&2, all pre-approved for AP1000 reactor design, will likely proceed to the construction stage in 2019.

Nicobar note: As long as US nuclear technology exports to CGN are restricted, CGN’s AP1000 at Lufeng faces an uncertain future, a point not mentioned in the source news article.

Qinghai Province Plans for Inland Nuclear Project

On December 29th, the Qinghai provincial government released its National Clean Energy Demonstration Province Development Plan (2018-2020), stating that early stage work on NPP site surveys as well as nuclear heating projects will be promoted. This Plan also mentions specifically that site surveys will take place in the Golmud and Delingha areas, with feasibility reports on NPP and nuclear heating projects to hopefully be concluded by the end of 2020. Following Gansu’s plan to build a 2MW capacity NPP announced in October 2018, Qinghai is the second northwestern Chinese province to make a bid for civil nuclear projects. This is also seen as a sign that China is reviving its inland NPP projects.

Progress of NPPs Under Construction

Fuqing Unit 6’s first steam generator was lifted onto the containment building’s 16.5m platform on December 23rd.

Hongyanhe Unit 6 began its primary pipe welding on December 15th and has now entered the nuclear island installation phase.

China Nuclear News Weekly Roundup – 12/10 - 12/14

Taishan Unit 1 Begins Commercial Operation

On the afternoon of December 13th, Taishan Unit 1, the world’s first EPR unit, fulfilled the 168-hour demonstration operation period and all relevant requirements, thus formally beginning commercial operation. With a rated output of 1.75 MWe, it is now also the largest nuclear power unit in the world. Previously, the Gen III French design was connected to the grid on June 29th and was reported to reach full power operation in Q3 2018.

Progress of NPPs Under Construction:

Fuqing Unit 6’s RPV was installed on December 10th.

Tianwan Unit 5’s moisture separator reheater (MSR) was shipped to the site from Guangzhou on the same day.

CNNC Invests HKD 1.5 Billion in Taihai Manoir

Taihai Manoir Nuclear Equipment Company has released an announcement, stating that its parent company, Taihai Group, signed a capital investment agreement with CNNC, on December 10th, whereby CNNC will invest HKD 1.5 billion through its subsidiary in HK. CNNC will hold 48.19% of Taihai Manoir’s shares.

CIAE Signs MOU & Cooperation Agreement with PSI & CERN Respectively

On December 6th and 7th, CNNC President Yu Jianfeng and CIAE President Wang Delin visited Switzerland. During the trip, the Chinese delegates went to the Paul Scherre Institute (PSI) and the European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN). The CIAE signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the PSI and an ALICE (A Large Ion Collider Experiment) Cooperation Implementation Agreement with CERN.

China Nuclear News Weekly Roundup – 12/03 - 12/07

“R&D of CAP1400’s RPV” Key Project Completed & Accepted by the NEA  

On December 4th, Research & Development of CAP1400’s Reactor Pressure Vessel, part of the CAP1400 National Key Research Project, was completed  and accepted by the NEA. The expert review panel consisted of 16 experts invited by the NEA  from the China Machinery Industry Federation (CMIF), China General Machinery Industry Association, Nuclear and Radiation Safety Center of the Ministry of Ecology and Environment (MEE), the Nuclear Power Institute of China (NPIC), State Nuclear Power Engineering Company (SNPEC), etc. The panel concluded that the project meets the requirements from the contract, fulfills the standards of inspection, and has justifiable budgetary expenses.

The project was initiated in January 2013, taking four and a half years to complete. Its accomplishments include a successful design of the RPV, localization of key manufacturing technologies for critical forgings, etc. the project thus paves the way for building a CAP1400 with proprietary intellectual property rights. 

Progress of NPPs Under Construction

Hongyanghe Unit 6’s RPV has been recently installed and it is projected to begin commercial operation in 2021.  

The full scope simulator for Tianwan Units 5&6 passed pre-shipping inspection, 124 days ahead of schedule.

Jiamusi City Selected as the Site of SPIC’s Demonstration Nuclear Heating Project

SNERDI held a conference regarding the inspection for site selection of SPIC’s demonstration nuclear heating project on November 28–30th, during which the  suitability of the proposed site at Jiamusi city, Heilongjiang Province was discussed and reviewed by a panel of experts. The panel consisted of ten members from the Ministry of Ecology and Environment, China Earthquake Administration, China International Engineering Consulting Corporation (CIECC), SNERDI, and China Energy Engineering Corporation (CEEC). More than seventy representatives from other relevant participating parties attended, including the Development and Reform Commission of Heilongjiang Province, SPIC, Jiamusi Municipal Government, etc. The panel concluded that the proposal passed the requirements, thus becoming the  first milestone of the demonstration project. Provincial and local leaders said during the conference that the project would receive full support from relevant government branches.

China Life Insurance Company Invests CNY 8 Billion in SPIC Subsidiary

On December 4th, China Life Insurance Company signed a debt-for-equity swap and capital investment agreement in Beijing with China Power Investment Nuclear Company, a subsidiary of the former China Power Investment Corporation, now SPIC. The investment is implemented under recently issued State Council policies, including the Guiding Opinion on Supporting the of Insurance Industry to the Real Economy from the China Insurance Regulatory Commission, and Opinion on Steadily and Proactively De-leveraging of Enterprises and Guiding Opinion on Marketized Banks’ Debt-for-Equity Swap from the State Council.

China Nuclear News Weekly Roundup – 11/24 - 11/30

Progress on HPR1000 Demonstration Projects

On November 28th, Fuqing Unit 6’s reactor pressure vessel was successfully installed.

One day later, the RPV for CGN’s Fangchenggang Unit 3, the reference reactor for Britain’s HPR1000 project, Bradwell B NPP, also completed its manufacture in Dalian. The manufacturer is the Nuclear Power and Petro-chemical Business Group, a subsidiary of China First Heavy Industries (CHFI).

SPIC Signs Framework Agreement for Strategic Cooperation with Tecnatom

On November 28th, SPIC’s Chairman Qian Zhimin signed a framework agreement for strategic cooperation with Tecnatom’s General Manager Javier Guerra in Madrid, Spain. According to the agreement, the two parties will cooperate in the fields of nuclear power, conventional power market, renewables, third-party market development, and more. Forms of cooperation may include technical exchanges and training sessions. The company leaders signed the agreement while being witnessed by Chinese President Xi Jinping and Spanish PM Pedro Sánchez.

MEE Releases Opinion on the CAP1400 Demonstration Project’s Environmental Impact Assessment  

On November 23rd, the Ministry of Ecology and Environment released its draft opinion on the CAP1400 demonstration project’s environmental impact assessment. The draft opinion is now public and concerned parties may request a hearing within 5 business days, until November 29th.

The MEE statement is one of the final steps prior to a FCD. The draft opinion will become official after the disclosure. Although no update has been released as of press time, the process should proceed soon given the standard wording used in the draft opinion.

China Nuclear News Weekly Roundup – 11/19 - 11/23

Chinese Nuclear New Builds Schedule May Not Meet NEA’s 2018 Target

The year of 2018 was set to witness 6-8 FCDs for nuclear new builds, according to the NEA’s 2018 Energy Work Guiding Opinion, which was a comprehensive official directive setting targets of the year for China’s development in the energy sector issued back in March. As it is now already the end of November, the outlook for meeting this original target is bleak. There have been reports about the green light for the CAP1400 demonstration project to begin construction, but a first concrete date has not been formally announced.  Various sites for projects in the pipeline like Xudapu, Zhangzhou, and Sanmen Phase II are prepared for civil construction but are also still waiting for official approval to pour concrete. Due to the recent U.S. DOE’s tightening of nuclear technology and equipment export policies to China and the outright ban of most kinds of engagement with CGN, the plan to deploy more AP1000s may be under discussion and subject to revision, which would delay further FCD announcements.

Multiple Media Articles Discuss Nuclear Heating in Northern China

In the past few months, various Chinese media articles have come out discussing the technology and theory of nuclear heating, as well as it history of development, mostly promoting the application of a low-temperature nuclear heating pool-type reactor design currently under development by the CNNC. It is believed to be a signal that Chinese government is strongly considering the deployment of nuclear heating reactors.

Bad haze is afflicting China again this winter as general municipal heating demands ramp up in Northern China. The efforts to substitute coal heating with natural gas heating have not seen strong execution since last winter. Rural residents are facing higher heating fees, delayed installment of gas pipes and supply shortages of natural gas. Nuclear heating may be a way around the unenviable paradox of choosing between affordable heating and clear skies. According to earlier reports, CGN has already obtained a permit to build a demonstration project with Tsinghua University and CNNC has repeatedly voiced its readiness for the deployment of such reactors as well.

CNNC Subsidiary Issues Green Bonds for Development in the Renewable Industry

On the morning of November 19th, Xinhua Hydro Power Co., Ltd., a CNNC subsidiary, issued CNY 1 billion (USD 143 million) worth of green bonds at the Shanghai Stock Exchange. It is the first time that a Chinese energy SOE issues public green bonds, which will finance the development, construction, and operation of renewable energy projects, i.e., wind, hydro, solar and biomass power plants.

Xinhua Hydro Power Company was created by CNNC through share merger transaction in 2014. It is now CNNC’s spearhead to develop its non-nuclear clean energy business.

Fuqing Unit 6 Begins Equipment Installation

On the evening of November 19th, Fuqing Unit 6, the second unit of CNNC’s HPR1000 demonstration project, finished pouring concrete for its NI dome. With this milestone reached, Unit 6’s civil construction phase has completed and it therefore enters the subsequent step of equipment installation. 

CNNC Successfully Manufactures Self-Developed Uranium Enrichment Centrifuge

On November 19th, the first batch of CNNC’s self-developed commercial uranium enrichment centrifuges were successfully manufactured, which concludes its R&D phase for such indigenous products. This milestone also shows that this model can be used for extensive commercial deployment and improve China’s output of enriched uranium.

CGN Mining Company Takes Over China Uranium Development Company

CGN Mining Company Limited released an announcement on November 16th that it had signed an agreement with its sister company China Uranium Development Company (CUDC) on a takeover of the selling party with a price of USD 8.5538 million. The HK-listed CUDC is a subsidiary of CGNPC Uranium Resources Company, a Beijing company. CUDC serves as the parent company’s trade platform for natural uranium resources.

China Nuclear News Weekly Roundup – 11/09 - 11/16

Multiple New CNNC NPP Sites Ready to Begin Construction

On November 15th, CNNC held a press conference honoring the 40th anniversary of its implementation of the Reform and Opening-up Policy. Yu Jianfeng, President of CNNC, reviewed the development of Chinese nuclear industry, where CNNC has played a leading role, over the past 40 years and discussed its future goals. “CNNC is now capable of building more than ten nuclear power units a year,” said Yu Jianfeng. He also told the public that multiple new sites are fully prepared to begin construction.  

UK HPR1000 Enters GDA Phase III

On November 15th (London time), the United Kingdom’s Office for Nuclear Regulation (ONR) and the Environment Agency (EA) released statements, announcing that they have completed Phase 2 of the design inspection of the UK HPR1000. At this stage, the regulatory authorities have not found any fundamental safety, security or environmental issues in the reactor design, which gives the HPR1000 the green light to the next step. The EA’s conclusion stated: “[t]he annual impact of radiation from the UK HPR1000 on people is likely to be below the UK public radiological dose limit and the constraint for any new source[1].”

The UK HPR1000’s GDA was requested by CGN and EDF through their British JV, General Nuclear System Ltd (GNS) and the process was initiated in January 2017. Going forward, more detailed information will be required to carry out further assessment and “there is still a considerable amount of work that will need to be undertaken by GNS...[2]” the ONR concluded.

Bill Gates Visits the China Energy Investment Corporation

On November 8th, Bill Gates paid a quick visit to CEIC, the Chinese state-owned energy and coal mining conglomerate. As the founder and chairman of TerraPower, Gates discussed the development of Gen IV nuclear power technology with his Chinese counterpart and the two sides agree to continuously pursue the promotion and application of the technology. He also received a certificate of membership as a Foreign Member of the Chinese Academy of Engineering from Li Xiaohong, head of the institute.

CGN Issuing CNY 2 Billion Worth of 3-year Bonds to Increase Liquidity

On November 9th, CGN released information about its plan to issue a public bond offering. The bonds will be worth no more than CNY 2 billion (USD 300M) and have a 3-year maturity period. The financing will be used to increase the company’s liquidity as well as repay interest on other company debts. Publicly available information shows that CGN’s assets and revenue have grown rapidly in recent years.

Yangjiang Unit 6 Finishes Cold Testing, Projected to Begin Commercial Operation in the Second Half of 2019  

Tianwan Phase IV Expected to Pour NI’s First Concrete in 2021

Sputnik, the Russian state-owned news agency, reported on November 12th that Tianwan NPP’s Phase IV project will start in 2021. A Rosatom manager told Sputnik that Tianwan Unit 7 should have its FCD in 2021.

In June 2018, China signed a framework agreement with the Russian government to procure more VVER units as part of the Phase IV project for Tianwan NPP. Previously, China imported four units of VVER variations at the Tianwan site. Unit 4 was just connected to the external transmission grid last month on October 27th. 

[1] The ONR, 15 November, 2018.  http://news.onr.org.uk/2018/11/uk-hpr1000-completes-gda-step-2/

[2] Ibid.

China Nuclear News Weekly Roundup – 10/29 - 11/09

CAP1400 Demonstration Project Allowed to Begin Construction

On November 2nd, 2018, the CAP1400 demonstration project at Shidaowan, Shandong Province, received permission to start construction. It has been almost three years since the last construction permissions were granted to Gen III units, namely the HPR1000 units at Fangchenggang NPP and the VVER unit at Tianwan NPP, on December 16, 2015. The CAP1400 unit will also be the first Gen III unit to pour its nuclear island’s first barrel of concrete during the Thirteenth Five-Year Plan (13th FYP).

Sanmen Unit 2 Begins Commercial Operation

On the evening of November 5th, Sanmen Unit 2 fulfilled the requirement of 168 consecutive hours of operation at full-power to begin commercial operation. It becomes the CNNC’s 20th operational nuclear power unit and the world’s third operational AP1000 unit.

Tianwan Unit 4 Connects to the External Grid

On the morning of October 27th, Tianwan Unit 4 was successfully connected to the external grid and began supply electricity. It is projected to begin commercial operation either at the end of this year or early 2019.

Fuqing Unit 5 Projected to Begin Commercial Operation in 2020

China’s first HPR1000 unit, Fuqing Unit 5, could begin commercial operation in 2020, said Xu Ligen, Chairman of the CNNP Fuqing Fujian Nuclear Power Company on November 5th. The CNNC’s HPR1000 pilot project had its first concrete poured in 2015 and has progressed smoothly so far. Primary milestones are reached either on time or ahead of schedule. At the moment, both Units 5&6 are in their installation phases.

China to Build a Floating SMR in Shandong Province, Projected to Operate in 2021

Ye Qizhen, Fellow at the Chinese Academy of Engineering Science, during the 2018 Nuclear Power Industry Summit stated that China is going to build its first floating NPP in Yantai, Shandong Province. Public available information shows that the pre-construction work began this year and is projected to begin operating in 2021. According to Ye, the floating NPP will be equipped with a Small Modular Reactor, “the ACP 100 design developed by the CNNC – a 125 MWe unit,” which has features ensuring very high safety standards.

The World’s First HTGR’s Steam Generator Shipped to Site

On October 31st, the world’s first HTGR steam generator passed pre-shipping inspection in Qinhuangdao, Hebei Province. The inspection was witnessed by representatives from the CNNC, Tsinghua University, Huaneng Group, and Harbin Electric.

Joint Chinese-Ukrainian Company Set Up to Run Business of Nuclear Facility Decommissioning and Spent Fuel Management

The Sino-Ukrainian Xianchu Nuclear Technology Company was recently founded with headquarters in the Free Economic Zone of Qingdao, Shandong Province. The company is the first ever JV between enterprise from the two countries and will pioneer new decommissioning technologies for nuclear facilities, as well as spent fuel management technologies in China.

China Nuclear News Weekly Roundup – 10/22 - 10/27

Tianwan Unit 6’s Primary Piping Passes Pre-shipping Inspection

On October 18th, Tianwan Unit 6’s primary piping passed pre-shipping inspection in Yantai, Shandong Province. The primary equipment was manufactured by Taihai Manoir Nuclear Equipment Company and the inspection panel was led by experts from Nuclear Power Institute of China (NPIC) and Jiangsu Nuclear Power Company.

Haiyang Unit 1 Begins Commercial Operation

On October 22nd, Haiyang Unit 1 in Shandong Province reached 168 hours of full-power operation. All systems and equipment were confirmed to be functioning steadily and hence the unit satisfies the requirements for commercial operation. Haiyang Unit 1 is also the first ever nuclear power unit in Shandong Province.

Yangjiang Unit 6 Begins Cold Testing

On October 23rd, equipment installation was completed for Yangjiang Unit 6’s nuclear island, thus releasing the plant to begin its commissioning phase, starting with cold testing.

CNNC Seeks Cooperation with Germany, Belgium, and Switzerland

A Chinese nuclear industry trade delegation, led by Mr. Zhang Jianhua, Vice Director of the China Atomic Energy Authority (CAEA), visited Europe in mid-October, meeting with their counterparts in Germany, Belgium, and Switzerland. The Vice GM of CNNC, Mr. He Zixing joined the trip, during which CNNC signed a joint statement of intent for cooperation with the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy, seeking opportunities to work together on nuclear safety and radioactive waste management. In Belgium, the CAEA signed a MoU with the Federal Public Service Economy, SMEs, Middle Classes, and Energy (FPS Economy) on strengthening bilateral cooperation in civil use of nuclear energy.

Fangchenggang NPP’s Pressurizer Surge Line Delivered to Site 112 Days Ahead of Schedule

The surge line for the HPR1000 units at Fangchenggang NPP was delivered to site recently. The surge pipeline connects the reactor and the pressurizer, cushioning the thermal oscillation in the primary coolant system. Erzhong (Deyang) Heavy Equipment Company manufactured the equipment for CGN’s first HPR1000 NPP and delivered it 112 days ahead of schedule.

Sample Squib Valves for CAP1000 & CAP14000 Certified

On October 23rd, the China Machinery Industry Federation (CMI) and the China General Machinery Industry Association (CGMA) held a certification conference, for the inspection of the sample squib valves for CAP1000 and CAP1400 reactor design. The sample products (model types DN200, DN250, DN350, DN450) were developed and manufactured under the joint work of CNNC Sufa Technology Industry Company, SNERDI, and China International Battery Fair. The certification committee found the sample products satisfactory and certified the product types to be used in the CAP series reactors.

China Nuclear News Weekly Roundup – 10/13 - 10/19

Ningxia Autonomous Region Updates 13th FYP to Include Plan for Inland NPP

The Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region Development and Reform Commission (DRC) has recently updated its 13th Five-year Plan (FYP), adding site selection for an inland NPP to the to-do list. In the original fourth section of the 13th FYP, “Construction of the Innovative Integrated National Renewable Energy Pilot Zone”, a new sentence has been added:

According to the state’s inland nuclear power development policy, (Xingxia is going to) proactively promote site selection, evaluation, and preservation for nuclear power project.

Moreover, in the “13th FYP Renewable Energy Key Projects” table, a new project is listed as “SPIC Ningxia Nuclear Power Phase I Project, 2000 MWe installation.” As earlier inland nuclear power projects have all been paused since the 2011 Fukushima accident, the Ningxia update of its 13th FYP is seen as an important signal that China’s inland nuclear power projects will be reactivated.    

Project Progress of HPR1000 Units

·         K2 – on October 16th, Karachi Unit 2’s pressurizer passed the pre-shipping hydraulic testing. The pressurizer was designed by the Nuclear Power Institute of China (NPIC) and manufactured by Harbin Electric (Qinhuangdao) Heavy Industry Equipment Company.

·         Fuqing Unit 5 – on October 17th, Fuqing Unit 5’s reactor cavity pool finished the 15-day watertight seal testing and no leaking was detected, so the result was found to be satisfactory. The reactor cavity pool consists of refueling pool and reactor internals storage pool. The cavity pool is the primary location for storage of both the upper and lower sections of the reactor internals and installation of the pressure vessel.   

·         Fuqing Unit 6 – on October 16th, Fuqing Unit 6’s reactor pressure vessel was shipped from Dalian. The RPV was designed and procured by NPIC and manufactured by China First Heavy Industries (CFHI).  

·         Fangchenggang Unit 3 – on October 16th, Fangchenggang Unit 3’s deaerator, a key piece of equipment for the conventional island’s secondary regenerative cycle, was shipped from manufacturer DEC Dongfang Boiler Group in Deyang, Sichuan Province.

China Nuclear Engineering Consulting Corporation Holds Evaluation Conference for Zhangzhou NPP Units 3-6 Project Proposals

On October 12th, under subcontract by China National Nuclear Power Co., Ltd (CNNC), China Nuclear Engineering Consulting Corporation (CNECC) held an evaluation conference for proposals for the Zhangzhou Nuclear Plant Units 3-6 Project. Representatives and experts from Nuclear and Radiation Safety Center of the Ministry of Ecology and Environment, China Electric Power Planning & Engineering Institute, CNNC, CNPE, CNNC-Guodian Zhangzhou Energy Company attended the conference.

LEU Shipped from CIAE for Nigeria’s Miniature Neutron Source Reactor (MNSR) Conversion Project

On the morning of October 15th, low enriched uranium (LEU) fuel for Nigeria’s MNSR conversion project was shipped from China Institute of Atomic Energy (CIAE). Following the successful completion of Ghana’s research reactor conversion, the Nigeria project is the second time China helps to convert a MNSR from high enriched uranium (HEU) to LEU. Both conversion cases are part of an international project supported by the IAEA to help decrease the proliferation risks associated with HEU fuel. The Nigeria project was initiated in September 2017. CIAE plays a key role in designing and processing LEU fuel, zero power test, transportation, field installation (Nigeria) and physical commissioning, etc. 

SEC-KSB: Confidence in Completing Sample Test for CAP1400’s Wet-winding Motor RCP by End of 2018

On the morning of October 12th, relevant NEA leadership made a site visit to SEC-KSB and were debriefed about development of the wet-winding motor pump for CAP1400. The company said that it is confident in completing the sample test for the RCP by end of this year.

Gu Jun and Li Dingcheng Resigned as Chairman and President of CNEC

Mr. Gu Jun and Mr. Li Dingcheng have recently resigned as China Nuclear Engineering & Construction Corporation’s Chairman and President, respectively. On October 15th, Xu Xiaoming was appointed to become the new President.

China Nuclear News Weekly Roundup – 10/08 - 10/12

US DOE Announces New U.S. Policy Framework on Export of Nuclear Technology to China, Prohibiting Transfer of Technology to CGN and all exports related to Advanced Reactors

On October 11th, the US Department of Energy announced an updated Policy Framework on Civil Nuclear Cooperation with China, further restricting exports of technology, equipment and components in the civil nuclear industry to China. Based in concerns of U.S. technology being diverted to military use or used against U.S. national or economic security, the new policy prohibits exports of technology in four categories, namely light water SMRs, non-light water Gen IV technologies, any new technology transfer after Jan. 2018, as well as any business with CGN or its subsidiaries. All equipment and components related to the HPR1000 Chinese indigenous reactor design, and any non-AP1000-identical CAP1400 equipment will also be denied for export. Future assistance to AP1000 units and other identical parts for lineage units, CAP1000 and CAP1400, will be continued, but limited to projects belonging to CNNC and SPIC

Haiyang Unit 2 Connects to the External Power Grid

On October 13th, Haiyang Unit 2 was connected to the external power grid. The milestone was reached after nearly one month after Haiyang Unit 1’s grid connection. At this point, all four of China’s AP1000 units have been connected to the power grid.

Nur Bekri Removed from Head of NEA and Deputy Director of NDRC

On October 12th, the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security released a notice stating that Nur Bekri, former Director of the National Energy Administration and Deputy Director of the National Development and Reform Commission has been removed from his position. Less than one month ago, the Central Commission for Discipline Inspection, CPC’s top anti-corruption agency, announced an official investigation on Bekri.

Sanmen Unit 1 Passes Provisional Acceptance Inspection

On Oct. 11th, Sanmen Unit 1 completed 700 hours of continuous operation and performance testing, thereby meeting the requirements for provisional acceptance. Sanmen Nuclear Power Company signed letters of acceptance respectively with Westinghouse Electric, State Nuclear Power Engineering Company, Harbin Electric & Mitsubishi Consortium, as well as Zhejiang Thermal Power Construction Company.

China Nuclear News Weekly Roundup – 09/17 - 10/08

Sanmen Unit 1 Began Commercial Operation on Sep. 21st

Sanmen Unit 1, the world’s first AP1000 unit, began commercial operation at 3:57 AM on September 21st. It passed the testing point of 168 hours of full-capacity operation and fulfilled the requirements for this milestone. Sanmen Unit 1 becomes the 19th operational nuclear power unit in China and increases CNNC’s installed nuclear capacity to 16716 MWe.

Tianwan Unit 4 Reaches First Criticality  

In the afternoon of September 30th, Tianwan Unit 4 reached its first criticality. Ten different physical tests will be carried out following the milestone so that ramp-up will occur safely. Five days later, on October 5th, the steam turbine had a successful first run at the speed of 1500rpm.

Progress of HPR1000 Units

Fuqing Unit 5 finished its pre-stressing work on September 25th, 8 days ahead of schedule; Fuqing Unit 6 has its primary piping shipped to site; Fangchenggang Unit 3’s RPV had a successful hydraulic testing on September 26th, paving the way for subsequent equipment installation.  

MEE: Two More HPR1000 Units Will Be Built at Ningde Units 5&6

On September 19th, the Ministry of Ecology and Environment (former MEP) issued an official response to Ningde Nuclear Power Company’s Report on Ningde NPP Units 5&6’s Environmental Impact (site selection phase), formally announcing that the two new builds will be HPR1000 units. 

Steam Generators at Tianwan Unit 5 Installed

On September 27th, the third and last steam generator of Tianwan Unit 5 was successfully installed, lying a solid foundation for subsequent work such as pipe wielding.

China Nuclear News Weekly Roundup – 09/10 - 09/14

Seawater Introduced into Fuqing Unit 5’s Pump House

On the afternoon of September 11th, seawater was introduced into the pump house as Fuqing Unit 5’s inlet steel gate was lifted. The milestone was reached ahead of schedule and paves the way for subsequent work like nuclear circuit cleaning and cold testing.

Progress on Pakistani HPR1000 Units

On September 5th, Karachi Unit 2’s reactor internals were successfully installed; on September 11th, 196 sets of AC/DC low voltage switch cabinets for K2/K3 passed inspection and were shipped from Shanghai Regeon Electric Co., Ltd. to construction site in Pakistan.

Rosatom GM: Tianwan Unit 4 Should Begin Generating Electricity Before March 2019

Mr. Alexey Likhachev, General Manager of Rosatom State Nuclear Energy Corporation has recently shared that Tianwan Unit 4, the VVER-1000 unit in China, is projected to begin operation before March 2019. The NPP project is the single largest ever economic cooperation project between Russia and China and it’s constructed by a joint force of Jiangsu Nuclear Power Company and Atomstroyexport, Russia’s primary nuclear power equipment and service exporter.

1st Nuclear Industry Digital Supply Chain Summit (NIDSC) Held in Haiyan

The 1st Nuclear Industry Digital Supply Chain Summit (NIDSC) was held in Haiyan, where Qinshan NPP is located, from September 13th to 14th. The conference is aimed to bridge international and Chinese local civil nuclear industries, as well as the upstream and downstream companies.  

Atomic Energy Law Designated Among China’s Priority Legislation Plans

The 13th National People’s Congress (NPC, China’s national legislature) Standing Committee released a legislation plan on September 7th. 69 of the 116 listed bills are categorized as priority projects, which are projected to have final proposals generated before the end of the 13th NPC’s term of office. The Atomic Energy Law is among the list of 69.

CNNC’s Self-Developed Full-Scope Simulator for HPR1000 Delivered

On September 14th, CNNC’s self-developed full-scope simulator for HPR1000 passed final inspection and was delivered 115 days ahead of schedule. The simulator will be used for NPP operator training for Fuqing Units 5&6, as well as Karachi Units 2&3. The completion of the project also lays a foundation for future exports of HPR1000.

China Nuclear News Weekly Roundup – 09/01 - 09/07

Fuqing Unit 6 Begins CI Equipment Installation

On the afternoon of September 1st, one out of two of Fuqing Unit 6’s primary CI cranes was put in place and prepared for equipment installation. The milestone signifies that Unit 6 is now entering the CI equipment installation phase.

First Moisture Separator Reheater for HPR1000 Shipped from Dongfang Electric

On the morning of September 2nd, China’s self-developed and first of a kind Moisture Separator Reheater (MSR) for the HPR1000 was shipped from Dongfang Electric’s plant in Guangzhou. It was projected to arrive at the Fuqing site in seven days. The MSR removes moisture and reheats the steam to avoid erosion corrosion in the low-pressure turbine. At the same time, it distributes the load of the low-pressure cylinder reasonably and reduce the load of its high-pressure cylinder.

Karachi Unit 3’s RPV installed

On September 5th, Karachi Unit 3, the first HPR1000 export to Pakistan, had its reactor pressure vessel (RPV) installed. Unit 3 is now in the primary equipment installation phase.

China’s First National Standard on Fusion Reactor Structural Material Released

China’s first national standard on neutron radiation resistant structural materials for use in fusion reactors was recently released. The Low-Activated Radiation-Resistant Martensitic Steel for Fusion Reactors (HJB 1016-2018) standard was compiled by the FDS “Fenglin (凤麟)” nuclear energy team at the Institute of Nuclear Energy Safety Technology of Chinese Academy of Sciences. The standard has been put into effect as of September 9th, 2018. The neutron radiation resistant steel is the primary material for advanced reactors like fusion reactors, fusion-fission hybrid reactors, and lead-cooled fast reactors.

Localization of N36 Zirconium Alloy’s Manufacturing Technology Completed

On September 2nd, first batch of China’s locally manufactured Zirconium alloy cladding tubes passed the performance evaluation organized by China Nuclear Energy Industry Corporation (CNEIC). Experts and representatives from the following companies and institutes attended the evaluation conference: CNNC’s Science & Technology Committee, Department of S&T Quality and Informationization, Qinshan Nuclear Power Company, Zhangzhou Nuclear Power Company, Hainan Nuclear Power Company, NPIC, CNNC Jianzhong Nuclear Fuel Co., Ltd.

NPIC Develops Safety Video Display Unit for China’s Indigenous DCS “Longlin” 

On September 1st, NPIC’s autonomously developed Safety Video Display Unit (SVDU) for China’s indigenous NPP digital control system (DCS) “Longlin (龙鳞)” passed its performance evaluation in Beijing. The conference was organized by China Nuclear Energy Association (CNEA). NPIC now possesses the technology to produce a complete set of DCS equipment. 

China Nuclear News Weekly Roundup – 08/27 - 08/31

Tianwan Unit 4 Completes First Fuel-loading

On August 25th, Tianwan Unit 4 began loading its first fuel assemblies at 7:15 p.m. and completed the fuel-load yesterday, September 2nd. Tianwan Unit 4 uses the VVER-1000/428 reactor design and is the second of such units   at the Tianwan Phase II site. Completion of Unit 4’s fuel-load is the latest important primary milestone reached following Unit 3’s commercial operation in March 2018.  

China Energy Engineering Corporation Subsidiary Wins Bid for Fuqing Units 5&6’s Conventional Island (CI) Maintenance  

On August 29th, China Energy Engineering Corporation’s Anhui No.2 Electric Power Construction Company won the bid for Fuqing Units 5&6’s CI maintenance. The company previously completed projects during daily operation and outage for Fuqing NPP’s NI maintenance, Tianwan NPP’s CI maintenance, as well as maintenance during Qinshan Phase III’s Unit 2 outage.    

CNNC Signs Contract with CNPE for the K2/K3 Commissioning with a CNY 450 Million Budget

On August 24th, CNNC signed a contract with CNPE for the joint commissioning of K2 & K3 project with a budget of CNY 450 million. The contract is the single largest ever to be signed by CNNC. The project will be an opportunity for CNNC to involve subsidiaries like CNPE and Fuqing Nuclear Power Company to further establish a platform within the group company for professional technical services.  

SPIC Develops Large-bore Seamless Super Austenitic Stainless-steel Pipe Used in NPPs’ Seawater Cooling System

On August 29th, SPIC Central Research Institute’s “Manufacturing Technology of Large-bore Seamless Super Austenitic Stainless-steel Pipe for NPPs’ Seawater Cooling System Project” passed the S&T Achievements Appraisal as required by the Ministry of Science and Technology’s relevant policies. The appraisal was organized by China Machinery Industry Federation (CMIF) and the expert panel consists of industry experts from CMIF, Nuclear Safety and Radiation Center of the Ministry of Ecology and Environment (MEE, former MEP), State Nuclear Power Demonstration Plant Company, etc.

Indonesia’s National Atomic Energy Agency (Batan) Signs Agreement with Tsinghua University to Cooperate on Civil Nuclear Technology HR Capacity Building

On August 29, Geni Rina Sunaryo, Director Batan's Nuclear Reactor Technology and Safety Centre, and Yuliang Sun, Deputy Director of Tsinghua University's Institute for Nuclear and New Energy Technology (INET) signed the cooperation agreement in Beijing. The cooperation will build upon previous collaboration on their China-Indonesia Joint Laboratory project for development of HTGR technology. The project’s focus on building HR capacity will nurture local talent for operation of Indonesia’s Experimental Power Reactor, an indigenous 10 MWt SMR.

Pre-FCD Peer-review & Project Procedure Evaluation Conference for CAP1400 Completed in Rongcheng

On September 01, the pre-FCD peer-review and project procedure evaluation conference for CAP1400 was successfully concluded. CANE organized the one-week conference in Rongcheng, Shandong Province, where the Shidaowan NPP site locates in. During the conference, 27 experts discussed comprehensive evaluation of the CAP1400 project’s design management, planned project management, procurement and contract management, quality assurance, process management, cost and risk management, etc. Among other topics, potential risks of the demonstration project’s digital control system (DCS) and reactor coolant pump (RCP) supply is a focus of the discussion. The conference paves the way for clearing future risks once the project pours its first barrel of NI concrete.

China Nuclear News Weekly Roundup – 08/20 - 08/24

Sanmen Unit 2 Connects to the Grid

At 17:22 on August 24th, 2018, Sanmen Unit 2, the world’s second AP1000 civil nuclear reactor, was connected to the external transmission grid and began supplying electricity at the 76MW power level.

PaR-TZ Nuclear Company Wins Contract to Provide Outage Services to Fuqing Units 1-4

PaR-TZ Nuclear Co., LTD. (太重派尔) signed a contract with Fuqing NPP in June 2018, to provide 12 scopes of outage services to Fuqing Units 1-4 over the next 5 years. PaR-TZ is a joint venture established by Taiyuan Heavy Machinery Group Company (49% ownership) and Westinghouse Electric UK (51%). It manufactures and sells fuel handling equipment in the Chinese nuclear market and supplies related services as well as spare parts. PaR-TZ has been working with Shanghai Electric’s No.1 Machine Tool Works and has supplied technology services to Fuqing NPP through the partner plant. Fuqing NPP bought its refuel equipment from Shanghai No.1 Machine Tool Works, which employs a Westinghouse-developed control system. Fuqing Unit 4 is undergoing its first outage at the moment, and PaR-TZ has provided a technology training session to the NPP to accommodate outage-related training needs.

Karachi Unit 3’s First Steam Generator Successfully Mounted

On August 18th, Karachi Unit 3’s first steam generator was successfully mounted. The “pre-introduction” installation method was once again used to mount the equipment before the NI dome was attached – this method’s second application after being employed for the first time at the K2 project. During the installation process, field engineers of China Zhongyuan Foreign Engineering Company also utilized a new equipment rotation method that makes use of an “e-shape support.”

Fuqing Unit 6’s Ring Crane Cleared for Use 10 Days Ahead of Schedule

At 11:08 A.M. of August 21st, Fuqing Unit 6’s ring crane finished its load testing and is now available for site use a full ten days ahead of schedule.

The SNERDI-led “Post-accident Core Damage Evaluation and Source Term Study” Passes NNSA Evaluation  

On August 14th and 15th, the NNSA organized an evaluation conference to examine the SNERDI-led “Post-accident Core Damage Evaluation and Source Term Study (事故后堆芯损伤评价及源项研究)”, a CAP1400 & HTGR National Key Research Project study, which was initiated in January 2013. It is aimed at developing a post-accident evaluation procedure and source term inversion procedure so damage conditions can be determined based on signs of core damage. The expert panel consisting of experts from 15 companies and organizations, including the EEP’s Nuclear and Radiation Safety Center, China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation, Chinese Academy of Engineering Physics, NPIC, China Nuclear Power Technology Research Institute, found the study results satisfies contract requirements and concluded that it passed the evaluation.  

China Nuclear News Weekly Roundup - 08/13 - 08/17

Three Primary Milestones Achieved

Sanmen Unit 1 reached full power on August 14th; on the morning of August 17th, Haiyang Unit 1 achieved first grid connection; two hours later at 12:07, Sanmen Unit 2 reached first criticality.

Zhangzhou NPP Initiates Equipment Procurement Project

Zhangzhou NPP held a personnel meeting on August 9th, initiating its equipment procurement project.

CAP1400 & HTGR Key National Research Projects Continue to Progress

The NNSA held an assessment meeting from August 8th to 9th to evaluate SNERDI’s “design simulation and analytical evaluation platform (设计仿真与分析评价平台)”, a software-based simulation platform for the HTGR, in which the project received a “pass”. Similarly, SNPTC finished another project entitled “study of the key technology of the passive and permanent containment heat removal system (核电厂安全壳内热量无时限非能动导出系统关键技术研究)” as it relates to the CAP1400 demo. This project also passed its acceptance evaluation upon conclusion of the inspection meeting on August 14th.

CNPEC Supplies Designs for the ITER Project’s Vapor Suppression Tanks (VST)

On August 9th, China Nuclear Power Engineering Company (CNPEC), CGN’s EPC branch, delivered the vapor suppression tanks (VST) designs for the ITER located in Provence, France.

Turkey is Building its Third NPP with China’s Help

A third nuclear power plant is likely to be built in Thrace, northwestern Turkey, according to an announcement from Fatih Donmez, the Minister of Energy and Natural Resources. Donmez also said that Turkey will cooperate with China for this project, and the eventual site selection will be announced following site surveys.

China Nuclear News Weekly Roundup - 08/06 - 08/10

NNSA Releases Hold Point for Sanmen Unit 2’s First Criticality

Following the NNSA-led nuclear safety review of Sanmen Unit 2 from July 23rd to 26th, the East China Nuclear and Radiation Safety Center confirmed that the NPP satisfies prerequisite conditions for its first criticality, which was confirmed by the NNSA in its decision to release the hold point.

Haiyang Unit 1 Reaches First Criticality, Unit 2 Begins Fuel Loading

On the morning of August 8th, Haiyang Unit 1 achieved its first criticality and maintained steady operations in a low power state. Later in the afternoon at 3:26 p.m., Haiyang Unit 2 began its first fuel-loading operations, firmly earning both Haiyang units “loaded operation” status.

Tianwan Unit 5 Begins Primary Pipe Wielding 66 Days Ahead of Schedule

Tianwan Unit 5 recently began primary pipe wielding, reaching this “key milestone” 66 days ahead of schedule. The primary pipe wielding is expected to be finished within 6 months.

Fuqing Unit 5’s Turbine Control System Passes Pre-Shipping Inspection

On August 4th Fuqing Unit 5’s turbine control system passed pre-shipping inspection. CNPE, Fuqing Nuclear Power Company, China Nuclear Power Engineering Consulting Company, Dongfang Electric, and Siemens Numerical Control Ltd. conducted performance analyses and cleared the turbine control system for shipment.  

Self-developed CAP1400 Steam Generator Passes Acceptance Inspection

Spanning August 6th to 7th, the National Energy Administration reviewed the results of the “Study and Development of CAP1400 Steam Generator Project” and accepted its findings. The CAP1400 steam generator prototype is jointly developed by many companies and institutions including SNERDI, Dongfang Electric (Guangzhou) Heavy Machine Company, Shanghai Electric, China First Heavy Industries, and Erzhong Group Deyang Heavy Industries Company, Shanghai Heavy Machinery Plant Company, State Nuclear Power Plant Service Company.

China Nuclear News Weekly Roundup - 07/30 - 08/03

NNSA Conducts Nuclear Safety Review of Sanmen Unit 2 for its First Criticality Hold Point Release

An NNSA inspection team recently visited Sanmen NPP and conducted a nuclear safety review on whether to release Unit 2 from its first criticality hold point. The inspection team listened to reports on the plant’s fuel-loading operations, first criticality preparations, commissioning and operational status of related equipment, and its handling of outstanding concerns. This meeting was followed by field inspections and further discussion of concerned issues. This review is an important step in the decision-making process to release Sanmen Unit 2 from its first criticality hold point. 

August 06 Update: NNSA earlier today announced the release of the hold point for Sanmen Unit 2's first criticality. 

SNPTC: Sanmen & Haiyang Units Will Have Higher On-grid Tariffs than Initially Proposed

SNPTC has recently revealed the latest developments of its AP1000 units. “Sanmen Unit 1 is now at 75% power and all performance indicators meet design requirements. We project that it will begin commercial operation before the end of the year. Haiyang Unit 2 is expected to load fuel for the first time this month following the completion of fuel-loading at Haiyang 1 and Sanmen 2.” Said Mr. Li Shaogang, Vice Director of SNPTC’s General Affairs Office. Addressing the project’s repeated schedule delays, Xie Jianxun, Manager of the Engineering Management Department, said that the latest calculated total costs of the Sanmen and Haiyang projects are now both at approximately RMB 50 billion, 10 billion more Yuan than the initial 40 billion estimate. Xie also said that cost overruns are commonly seen in the international nuclear industry for a first-of-a-kind reactor design. Therefore, the on-grid tariffs for both projects will be higher than initial valuation, although final figures have yet to be determined. Regarding future new (C)AP1000 builds, Zhang Shujun, General Manager of the Equipment and Fuel Management Department, is optimistic about construction schedules: “the first locally manufactured canned-motor pump has already been jointly produced by Shenyang Blower and Harbin Electric, and its test results so far are all satisfactory. Additionally, the pump is currently undergoing a tear-down inspection.” He thinks that the pump, which is considered “localized key equipment”, will no longer be cause for schedule delay, as was the case with Sanmen Unit 1. Localization of the AP1000 has proceeded at a steady rate. Sanmen Unit 1 was only able to localize 25% of its manufacture and construction, while the number for Haiyang Unit 2 is 70%. The average localization rate is about 55% for the four units at Sanmen & Haiyang. “China now has the capability to manufacture 6-8 sets of AP/CAP equipment per year,” said Zhang. While speaking on the subject of AP series status updates, Li Shaogang also added that the CAP1400 demo project is ready to begin construction.

Shanghai Electric May Halt its Takeover of Karachi Electric Due to Low Local Tariffs

Shanghai Electric released an announcement on July 28th stating, “due to the potentially volatile local tariffs and its impact on the profitability of the subject company, SEC may terminate the deal.” Karachi Electric is the transmission company for Karachi Province of Pakistan, and the lower than expected local tariffs is believed to be the main reason for Shanghai Electric’s hesitation. Pakistan is seen as a “model country” along the Belt & Road Initiative route and the termination of such a deal may lead to second guesses and similar results. There is also suspicion that SEC’s hesitation may also have something to do with the recent Pakistani election.