China nuclear power expansion

In July 2026, China’s State Council approved the construction of eight new nuclear reactor blocks, two each in Zhejiang, Guangdong, Liaoning and Shandong. The approvals include the Shandong Laeyang Phase I project, which will host two CAP1400 pressurised water reactors, and demonstration units for the Hualong One 2.0 third‑generation design in the other three provinces.

These authorisations follow earlier approvals earlier in the year for ten additional reactor blocks, bringing the total approved capacity to over 170 billion yuan. The moves are part of a broader strategy to curb coal’s share of electricity generation, meet rising demand from electric vehicles and air‑conditioning, and strengthen energy security as renewables account for a growing share of the power mix.

Together, the new projects raise China’s nuclear capacity further, maintaining its lead in global installed nuclear power and supporting the country’s goal of reducing CO₂ emissions while expanding clean‑energy supply.