# China leads the world in nuclear power expansion China has built 27 nuclear reactors in a decade, far outpacing the US. - **Source:** [Fast Company](https://www.fastcompany.com) - **Published:** 2026-08-23 - **Topic:** [Business](https://brifing.si/c/business) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/450d4ada-033c-45aa-86d2-fa4f48ffd23c ## China's nuclear energy surge China connected 27 new nuclear reactors to its grid between 2016 and 2026, while the US added only two. MIT's Prof. Jacopo Buongiorno confirms China's global leadership in nuclear plant construction. This rapid expansion is part of China's strategy to meet its growing energy demands and transition to cleaner sources. ## Comparison with the US The US's mere two reactors in the same period highlights the investment gap in nuclear energy. China's nuclear capacity tripled in the last decade, strengthening its position in global energy competition. Meanwhile, the US focuses on modernizing its aging nuclear fleet rather than new construction. ## Renewable energy transition China views nuclear power as key to achieving a fully renewable grid. Its 2030 carbon neutrality goal drives these investments. Nuclear provides stable baseload power compared to intermittent wind and solar. Energy security concerns are pushing China toward nuclear expansion. ## Technological leadership China leads in next-gen nuclear technologies with indigenous designs like Hualong One competing globally. The country also invests heavily in fast neutron reactors and fusion research. This technological edge enhances China's influence in global energy markets. ## Economic impacts Nuclear investments boost China's domestic industry, creating thousands of high-skilled jobs. Nuclear technology exports increase China's soft power, with countries like Pakistan and Argentina using Chinese-built plants. The sector contributes significantly to technological self-reliance. ## Environmental concerns Nuclear expansion raises environmental questions about waste management and accident risks. However, China has adopted safer reactor designs post-Fukushima and continuously improves safety standards. The country balances growth with environmental considerations. ## Global energy politics China's nuclear push is reshaping global energy dynamics. While Western nations retreat from nuclear, China's investments position it as a future technology exporter. Developing countries increasingly see China as an alternative nuclear technology provider. ## Energy independence China's nuclear strategy aims to reduce dependence on energy imports. Nuclear serves as a bridge in moving away from coal, improving both air quality and supply security. China's energy transition model could influence other developing economies. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.fastcompany.com/91591707/nuclear-power-is-chinas-key-for-transitioning-to-a-fully-renewable-grid-design — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._