Second unit of world’s largest nuclear power base goes live in China

China has commenced commercial operations of Unit 2 at the Zhangzhou nuclear power plant, marking the completion of phase one of what will become the world’s largest nuclear power base. With a capacity of 1126 MWe, Unit 2 began operations on January 1, 2026, following a series of commissioning tests and a successful 168-hour trial run. The Zhangzhou site plans a total of six reactors, which upon completion will generate 60 billion kilowatt hours of carbon-free energy, aiming to supply about 75 percent of the energy needs for the cities of Xiamen and Zhangzhou in southern Fujian. This development aligns with China’s broader strategy to reduce carbon emissions and transition from fossil fuels to non-carbon energy sources, supporting its goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2060. The project, a collaboration between China National Nuclear Corporation (CNNC) and China Guodian Corporation, began construction in 2019 and has been notable for its timely delivery, completing Unit