While major weather events have disrupted nuclear power generation across Europe, they are unlikely to impede China’s rapid expansion in the sector, according to Francois Morin, China director of the World Nuclear Association.

The unusually hot and dry summer forced nuclear reactors to shut down in several European countries, including France and Romania, due to falling river levels and rising water temperatures. France, where nuclear energy accounts for about 70% of electricity generation, experienced a record shortfall of over 20% in nuclear capacity, with outages linked to drought, major heat, and an invasion of jellyfish, Le Monde reported on August 11.

Nuclear power plants require large amounts of cooling water, and many European reactors are located along rivers, making them vulnerable to droughts and heatwaves. In contrast, China’s nuclear facilities are primarily situated along the coast, using open seawater for cooling. This design reduces their susceptibility to drought and heat-related disruptions.

Morin noted that while coastal areas face threats from storms and rising sea levels, China’s extensive experience with typhoons means these do not pose a serious threat to its nuclear reactors.

This resilience supports China’s ongoing commitment to expanding its nuclear power industry despite the challenges posed by climate change.

Sources