Coal to Nuclear (C2N) Conversion Initiative

planned

China is investigating plans to convert retiring coal-fired power plants into nuclear power stations using compact, meltdown-proof reactors. This strategy aims to utilize existing grid and water access infrastructure of retiring coal plants to accelerate the transition to clean energy. The initiative is proposed by China Energy Engineering Group Co (CEEC) and focuses on preserving infrastructure, especially in coastal areas, to meet decarbonisation goals and address land scarcity. Advanced reactor designs like high-temperature gas-cooled reactors (HTGRs) and molten salt thorium reactors are considered suitable for this conversion due to their safety features and compatibility with existing coal plant systems. The transition is expected to span several decades and may evolve with breakthroughs in nuclear fusion technology.