China has made significant progress in the development of supercritical water-cooled reactor (SCWR) technology, according to Xiao Zejun, deputy chief engineer at the Nuclear Power Research and Design Institute. The first phase of basic research and development for this next-generation nuclear power technology has been successfully completed. A comprehensive technical roadmap has been established, and the overall design and material selection for the CSR1000 reactor have been finalized. This marks a major milestone in China’s efforts to advance fourth-generation nuclear energy systems.
The SCWR is considered one of the most promising technologies in the global nuclear industry due to its high efficiency, safety, and cost-effectiveness. Unlike traditional pressurized water reactors like the AP1000, which China previously introduced from Westinghouse, SCWRs operate at much higher temperatures and pressures, enabling greater thermal efficiency—up to 44%, compared to around 33% for conventional reactors. This translates into significant fuel savings, with one million kilowatts of SCWR capacity requiring only 75% of the fuel needed by a similar-sized PWR.
Safety is another key advantage of SCWRs. Their design allows for passive safety features that reduce the risk of core meltdowns, making them more reliable than older reactor models. Additionally, the reactor can potentially self-recycle nuclear fuel, reducing waste and improving sustainability.
China’s SCWR program has strong ties to its existing supercritical and ultra-supercritical coal-fired power generation technology. This synergy helps accelerate development and reduces costs. While some media speculate that SCWRs could be used in future aircraft carriers, experts clarify that the technology is primarily intended for industrial power generation, as its size and weight are not suitable for naval applications.
In May 2024, China officially joined the Generation IV International Forum (GIF) SCWR working group, marking a major step in international collaboration on advanced nuclear technology. This move allows China to actively participate in global research and development rather than just observing. The country has already completed all necessary legal procedures to become a full member.
The SCWR development roadmap includes four main stages, with work continuing until 2025. These phases involve further research, engineering design, experimental reactor construction, and standardization of large-scale designs. The first phase focused on theoretical studies, material testing, and initial feasibility assessments, leading to the proposed CSR1000 design with independent intellectual property rights.
Looking ahead, the second phase will focus on mastering the full design process, optimizing materials, and conducting irradiation tests for fuel components. The goal is to complete an engineering prototype and lay the groundwork for commercial deployment.
Internationally, China has signed cooperation agreements with countries like Russia, Canada, and Japan. It is also seeking membership in the IAEA’s SCWR-CRP joint research project, further strengthening its position in the global nuclear community.
Domestically, the SCWR program is supported by multiple institutions under the "973 Plan," including universities and research institutes. Projects such as the "Basic Research on Critical Scientific Issues of Supercritical Water-Cooled Reactors" and the "China-Europe Fuel Verification Project" have contributed valuable knowledge and technological advancements.
One of the main advantages of SCWRs is their use of water as both moderator and coolant, a material that is abundant, low-cost, and well-understood. The system’s simplicity—eliminating many complex components found in traditional reactors—reduces maintenance and operational complexity.
Economically, SCWRs offer substantial benefits. According to estimates, the cost of a million-kilowatt SCWR plant is significantly lower than that of third-generation reactors. With a projected investment of about 9,000 yuan per kilowatt, it is far more cost-effective than other nuclear options currently under construction in China.
Despite these advantages, challenges remain. Manufacturing the reactor pressure vessel, developing advanced materials for internal components, and ensuring long-term reliability through rigorous testing are among the key hurdles that need to be addressed.
In parallel, China has also made great strides in ultra-supercritical coal-fired power technology. With over 100 units now in operation or under construction, the country has demonstrated the feasibility of high-efficiency, low-emission power generation. This experience provides a solid foundation for the transition to nuclear-based supercritical systems.
Overall, the SCWR represents a bold step toward a safer, cleaner, and more efficient energy future. As China continues to refine this technology, it is positioning itself as a global leader in the next era of nuclear power.
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