The reactor pressure vessel for Unit 2 of the San’ao nuclear power plant has reached its destination in Zhejiang province, China, as announced by CGN Cangnan Nuclear Power.
Arrival of the Reactor Pressure Vessel
Manufactured by Shanghai Electric Nuclear Power Equipment Company Limited, the vessel departed from Shanghai on July 30 and arrived at the San’ao site on August 2 after a four-day sea journey.
Following the vessel’s arrival, two days were dedicated to channel clearing and other preparatory tasks. The unloading and hoisting operations were successfully completed on August 4.
“The successful arrival of the reactor pressure vessel is crucial in supporting and ensuring the installation of key equipment in the nuclear island and the welding of main pipelines for Unit 2 of the San’ao nuclear power project,” stated CGN Cangnan Nuclear Power.
Project Overview
San’ao 2 is the second of six HPR1000 (Hualong One) pressurized water reactors planned for the site. In May 2015, the National Energy Administration approved the initial site protection and demonstration work at San’ao.
The State Council approved the construction of Units 1 and 2 as part of the first phase on September 2, 2020. Construction permits from China’s National Nuclear Safety Administration were issued on December 30, 2020, with the first concrete for Unit 1 being poured the following day.
The first concrete for San’ao 2 was poured on December 30, 2021.
Construction and Timeline
Units 1 and 2 of the San’ao plant are scheduled to commence electricity generation in 2026 and 2027, respectively. The San’ao facility is notable for being the first nuclear power project in the Yangtze River Delta region of China to utilize the Hualong One reactor design.
Private Capital and Ownership
The San’ao project is distinguished as the first Chinese nuclear power initiative to involve private capital. Geely Technology Group has acquired a 2% stake in the plant. China General Nuclear (CGN) holds a 46% share in the project company, Cangnan Nuclear Power, with other state-owned enterprises owning the remaining shares.
Future Prospects
The successful delivery of the reactor pressure vessel for San’ao 2 marks a significant milestone in the progress of China’s nuclear energy expansion.
With Units 1 and 2 set to begin operation in the coming years, the San’ao plant is poised to become a key player in the country’s clean energy landscape.