China has achieved a historic milestone by becoming the top nation in global nuclear power capacity for the first time, according to the China Nuclear Energy Development Report 2025, released by the China Nuclear Energy Association (CNEA).

Currently, China operates 102 nuclear power units—comprising operational units, those under construction, and those approved for construction—with a total installed capacity of 113 million kilowatts.

As of the end of 2024, China has 28 nuclear power units under construction.

The nation has maintained the highest global installed capacity for units under construction for 18 consecutive years.

In 2024, China's nuclear power generation reached approximately 444.7 billion kilowatt-hours, representing 4.72 percent of the country’s total electricity output, positioning it as the second-largest producer globally in terms of nuclear electricity generation.

This output led to an estimated reduction in carbon dioxide emissions of about 334 million tons annually.

Looking forward, projections indicate that China's operational nuclear power capacity is anticipated to secure the top spot worldwide before 2030, based on current construction rates.

Notably, China has achieved 100 percent localization of crucial nuclear power equipment and has secured independent control over key technologies in this sector.

Domestic deliveries of main nuclear power equipment reached 114 sets in 2024, an increase that has doubled compared to the previous year.

Cao Shudong, an executive vice chairman of CNEA, reported ongoing advancements in independent research and development in nuclear technology.

He highlighted that the first unit of the Guohe One demonstration project has been completed and is now operational, while the Linglong One project is expected to conclude by 2026.

The report further emphasizes the importance of promoting balanced nuclear power development.

It proposes the optimal use of existing coastal nuclear power plant sites to further advance project development.

In terms of international collaboration, China's nuclear energy initiatives continue to progress.

The nation has enhanced its communication and cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency and has opened twelve nuclear research and experimental platforms to international collaboration.

Nuclear energy partnerships with countries like Russia and France are also expanding.

These findings were shared during the spring summit of the International Forum on Nuclear Energy Sustainable Development, organized by CNEA.

Dong Baotong, head of the National Nuclear Safety Administration, noted that China is entering a peak phase of large-scale nuclear construction, driven by factors including climate change, energy security, and increasing electricity demand, particularly due to the rise of data centers.

Safety remains a priority, as Dong emphasized the necessity for maintaining high nuclear safety standards during the operation of nuclear power units.

In legislative developments, Huang Haihua, a spokesperson for the Legislative Affairs Commission of the National People's Congress (NPC) Standing Committee, announced that lawmakers are set to review several draft laws, including one pertaining to atomic energy, during the 15th session of the 14th NPC in Beijing from April 25 to April 28.