The loading of fuel assemblies into the core of the Sanao-2 nuclear power plant in the eastern Chinese province of Zhejiang has been completed, owner China General Nuclear (CGN) said.
According to CGN, fuel loading was completed on 2 November, marking a major step towards nuclear-powered operation and commissioning.
Sanao-2 is a 1,117-MW domestic Hualong One, or HPR1000, pressurised water reactor (PWR) unit. Construction began in December 2021.
The Sanao-1 nuclear plant, also a Hualong One, began commercial operation at the site earlier this year.
A further four Hualong One units are planned for the Sanao nuclear station, also known as Sanaocun or Zhejiang Sanao, for a total of six units.
When all six units are operating Sanao is expected to produce 52.5 TWh of energy per year and will supply the larger Yangtze River Delta region
The Hualong One is an indigenous pressurised water reactor unit that incorporates elements of China National Nuclear Corporation’s ACP1000 and CGN’s ACPR1000+ reactor designs.
According to the International Atomic Energy Agency, China has 60 nuclear units in commercial operation and 37 under construction. About half of those under construction are of the Hualong One design.
