China National Nuclear Corporation (CNNC) announces the start of its small multipurpose modular reactor (Linglong One) demonstration project at a ceremony marking the commencement of the fifth batch of construction projects in Hainan Free Trade Pilot Zone, on July 18. [Photo/CNNC]

China National Nuclear Corporation (CNNC) announced the start of its small multipurpose modular reactor (Linglong One) demonstration project at a ceremony marking the commencement of the fifth batch of construction projects in Hainan Free Trade Pilot Zone, on July 18.

As a new type of nuclear reactor, the small modular reactor is safe and economical with a high degree of flexibility in terms of power and scale, as well as being adaptable for power plants in challenging locations. It is able to provide power for small and medium-sized electricity grids, along with any energy-consuming system. 

Linglong One, which CNNC started researching the technology for in 2010, became the first small modular reactor to have passed a safety review by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in 2016, becoming a landmark for the international development of small multipurpose modular reactors. 

Based on current pressurized-water reactor technology, Linglong One is considered to have excellent safety features, thanks to its integrative reactor design and passive automotive safety system. The technology is also environmentally friendly, enabling sustainable economic development. 

The Linglong One demonstration project will verify the design, manufacture, construction and operation of the technology. It will also help the company gain experience of running small nuclear power stations and enable it to explore the future market for small reactors. 

The development of small nuclear reactors accords with the policy of building the National Ecological Civilization Pilot Zone in Hainan. CNNC continues to make a major contribution to protecting the environment. The first Hainan nuclear project built by CNNC in 2015 provides the province with about 30 percent of its power and has sharply reduced emissions of carbon dioxide.