The U.S. is reportedly 15 years behind China in the development of high-tech nuclear power due to Beijing’s state-backed technology approach and extensive financing, according to a report released on Monday. The study by the Information Technology & Innovation Foundation, a Washington-based nonpartisan research institute, highlights the stark contrast in nuclear power advancements between the two countries.
China currently has 27 nuclear reactors under construction, with average construction timelines of about seven years, significantly faster than other countries, the report noted. This rapid development is attributed to China’s rapid deployment of modern nuclear power plants which results in significant scale economies and learning-by-doing effects. As a result, Chinese enterprises are expected to gain an advantage in incremental innovation in the nuclear sector moving forward.
Despite having the world’s largest fleet of nuclear power plants, the U.S. is facing challenges in keeping pace with China’s advancements. President Joe Biden’s administration views nuclear power as a critical source of virtually emissions-free electricity to combat climate change. However, after the completion of two large nuclear plants in Georgia in 2023 and 2024, which were billions of dollars over budget and delayed by years, no new U.S. nuclear reactors are currently being built. Additionally, a planned high-tech plant at a U.S. lab was cancelled last year.
China’s nuclear power industry benefits from state-owned banks offering loans with interest rates as low as 1.4%, far lower than those available in Western economies. Sustained state support and localization strategies have enabled China to dominate sectors such as renewable power and electric vehicles (EVs).
Last December, the world’s first fourth-generation high-temperature gas-cooled reactor at Shidao Bay became operational. The China Nuclear Energy Association claimed that the project involved the development of over 2,200 sets of “world-first equipment” with a localization rate of domestically produced materials at 93.4%.
Advocates of high-tech reactors argue that they are safer and more efficient than current plants, though critics raise concerns about proliferation and material risks. China has not been without challenges; the China Nuclear Energy Association warned of a severe glut in nuclear component production, with excessive competition driving down prices and causing losses.
Stephen Ezell, the author of the report, stated that if the U.S. is serious about nuclear energy, it needs to develop a robust national strategy. This strategy should involve more investment in research and development, identifying and accelerating promising technologies, and supporting the development of a skilled workforce. “While America is behind, it can certainly catch up technologically,” said Ezell.
The U.S. Department of Energy did not comment on the report.
