First Overseas Hualong One Nuclear Reactor Starts Charging

The Karachi K2 generator unit in Pakistan, China's first overseas Hualong One nuclear reactor, began charging on Nov 28, laying a solid foundation for reaching critical state and operation.

Once operable, the project is expected to produce nearly 10 billion kWh of power annually, providing local people with safe and clean energy. It has driven development of relevant industries and created more than 10,000 jobs in Pakistan.

The charging is a milestone of Hualong One, China's third generation nuclear power technology with complete proprietary intellectual property rights, and will improve Hualong One technology's competitiveness in countries participating in the Belt and Road Initiative.

A major result of the nuclear power cooperation between China and Pakistan, the progress of the K2 generator unit lifted Pakistan-China all-weather strategic cooperative partnership to a new level.

The Hualong One technology was developed by China National Nuclear Corporation (CNNC) based on its more than 30 years of experiences in scientific research, design, construction, operation and management of nuclear power.

With a design life of 60 years, it is equipped with the special nuclear fuel assemblies developed by CNNC, setting the refueling cycle at about 18 months.

Its innovative security system also meets the highest international standards.

It is an iconic achievement of the innovative development of China's nuclear power industry.

So far, there are six Hualong One nuclear power generator units under safe and high-quality construction in the world.

An aerial view of the Karachi K2 generator unit in Pakistan [Photo/sasac.gov.cn]

A close look at a component of the Karachi K2 generator unit [Photo/sasac.gov.cn]

(Executive editor: Wang Ruoting)