China has announced that it possesses the capability to construct up to 50 nuclear reactors simultaneously, marking a major assertion of its expanding nuclear energy ambitions amid rising global geopolitical tensions, particularly between the United States and Iran, which have prompted Beijing to reduce its dependence on fossil fuels such as crude oil and strengthen its energy security through nuclear power expansion.
According to current data, China already operates 60 commercial nuclear reactors, while another 36 reactors are under construction, making it the country with the largest share of nuclear power projects underway globally. In addition, regulatory approvals have been granted for 16 more reactors, reflecting the rapid pace of expansion in the sector.
The China Nuclear Energy Association (CNEA) has stated that the country has emerged as a global leader in nuclear power generation, with its installed nuclear capacity already exceeding 125 million kilowatts. The report highlights China’s dominant position in the ongoing global nuclear energy expansion.
Looking ahead, China is aiming to significantly scale up its nuclear capacity to meet future energy demands, with a target of reaching 200 gigawatts by 2040, as confirmed by CNEA Chairman Yang Changli, underscoring the country’s long-term strategy to strengthen clean energy production and ensure energy security.