Workshop on small modular reactors held in Hainan

HAIKOU, Sept. 5 (Xinhua) -- An interregional workshop on the technology development and application of small modular reactors (SMRs) was held on Monday in southern China's Hainan.

The event, jointly hosted by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and the China Atomic Energy Authority (CAEA), saw over 200 government officials, experts, and scholars from over 50 countries and regions conduct in-depth exchanges on topics such as SMR technology development, user needs, and safety supervision.

Liu Hua, deputy director general of IAEA, lauded China's achievements in the development and application of SMR technology, highlighting the vital role of SMR in driving the global energy transition and addressing climate change.

SMRs could serve in multiple areas, like powering small and medium-sized electricity grids, urban heating, industrial steam supply, seawater desalination, and isotope production.

The typical representative of nuclear energy innovation holds bright market prospects for its flexible deployment, environmental friendliness, and high safety.

Liu Jing, vice chairman of the CAEA, said China is willing to share its experience with the international community in SMR technology, adding that the country is open to deeper cooperation and exchanges to provide more nuclear energy solutions for climate change.

Gu Jun, general manager of the China National Nuclear Corporation, said the company is actively advancing SMR projects, including the Linglong One reactor and Yanlong pool-type low-temperature heating reactor.

"Hopefully, all parties involved could join hands to promote the development of SMRs," Gu said.