China’s Ambitious Plan for the World’s First Fusion-Fission Power Plant by 2030
China is developing Xinghuo, the world’s first fusion-fission power plant, aiming for completion by 2030. With a 100 megawatt capacity and a significant investment, the project is in its initial phase, focusing on environmental assessments and leveraging local resources. Its successful launch could advance China’s position in nuclear technology significantly.
China is embarking on an ambitious initiative to establish the world’s first fusion-fission power plant, known as Xinghuo, by the year 2030. This hybrid power plant, with an anticipated capacity of 100 megawatts, has the potential to position China significantly ahead in global advancements in nuclear fusion technology.
The Xinghuo project, which involves an investment of 20 billion yuan (approximately USD 2.76 billion), has commenced its initial phase. This includes a public tender for an environmental impact assessment, as reported by zbytb.com, a platform that tracks bidding and procurement activities in China.
The proposed location for the facility is Yaohu Science Island, situated within the high-technology zone of Nanchang, Jiangxi province. The forthcoming environmental report will encompass a variety of assessments, including evaluations of air, water, noise, and ecological effects, as well as risk assessments, pollution control strategies, and monitoring protocols.
The name “Xinghuo” translates to “spark” and references a well-known quote from Mao Zedong: “A single spark can start a prairie fire.” The project is a collaboration between the state-owned China Nuclear Industry 23 Construction Corporation and Lianovation Superconductor, a spinoff from Lianovation Optoelectronics, leveraging Jiangxi’s extensive copper resources essential for superconducting materials.
Per a collaboration agreement signed in 2023, the objectives of the Xinghuo reactor include attaining a remarkable Q value exceeding 30. The Q value is instrumental in measuring the efficacy of the fusion reaction, specifically the ratio of thermal power produced compared to the input power required to heat the plasma.
In conclusion, China’s launching of the Xinghuo fusion-fission power plant signifies a pioneering step forward in nuclear energy innovation. With its development poised to achieve notable advancements in energy efficiency, the project is notable for its comprehensive environmental assessments and collaborative efforts tapping into regional resources. Successful completion by 2030 could place China at the forefront of global nuclear technology advancements.
Original Source: www.scmp.com
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