Hualong One, a domestically designed third-generation nuclear reactor, enters commercial operation on Jan. 30, 2021. [Photo/Xinhua]

Amid the global push for clean energy and advancements in artificial intelligence, China's nuclear power sector is accelerating its transition toward safe, clean and efficient energy through the use of digital and intelligent technologies, a top industry official said.

"China's nuclear technology and services are among the best in the world," said Lu Tiezhong, chairman of China National Nuclear Power (CNNP), in a recent interview with China.org.cn.

Lu, also a member of the 14th National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), added the sector is already expanding its overseas market and aims to contribute a Chinese solution to the global energy transition. 

He said nuclear energy's advantages of high energy density, stable operation and low carbon emissions uniquely position it to address resource constraints and meet global decarbonization goals.

As AI advances rapidly, nuclear energy and AI will become increasingly intertwined, Lu said. He explained that nuclear power provides a stable, low-carbon energy base for AI, while AI enhances nuclear safety and efficiency. This synergy, he added, will drive new momentum in the global energy transformation.

China's progress is evident in its digital transformation. Sanmen Nuclear Power Co., a subsidiary of CNNP, was officially recognized as a "Lighthouse Factory" by the World Economic Forum, becoming the first recipient of the designation in the global nuclear industry. The plant has implemented over 40 digital applications, resulting in a 1.5% improvement in unit efficiency and nearly 50% reduction in major overhaul costs, Lu said.

Meanwhile, China Nuclear Power Operation Technology Corporation has implemented the DeepSeek AI platform, helping to improve data analysis and response efficiency by 40% to 50%. Advanced robotics, independently developed by China National Nuclear Corporation, have been used for reactor refueling, underwater inspection and non-destructive testing in high-radiation environments, enhancing safety and operational efficiency.

Lu said China's third-generation nuclear technologies, including the Hualong One reactor, Linglong One small modular reactor, high-temperature gas-cooled reactor and fast neutron reactor, signify a shift from catching up to leading in the global nuclear market.

He noted that in the World Association of Nuclear Operators' (WANO) performance assessments, 22 of CNNP's 25 operating reactors earned perfect scores, with an average of 99.13 — significantly surpassing the global average.

Technological advancements have also led to innovations in nuclear services. Lu introduced "I-Nuclear," which he described as the world's first full-lifecycle nuclear technology service system. "We have built an integrated smart technical service framework based on CNNP's 260 reactor years of operational experience," he said.

The system includes eight standardized modules covering site preparation, commissioning, maintenance, training and digital management. Lu said it sets a new benchmark for one-stop nuclear services, providing a replicable "China model" for the global industry.

Lu expressed confidence in China's ability to capitalize on emerging opportunities driven by the surge in global AI demand.

China has already delivered seven nuclear power units and multiple research reactors to Pakistan and other countries. It is also engaged in cooperation with more than 30 nations across Southeast Asia, Central Asia, Africa, the Middle East and South America. Lu said five countries are in the final stages of negotiations, while eight more are reviewing technical proposals, with several agreements likely to be finalized by the end of the year.

Beyond electricity generation, China's nuclear sector is exploring new applications for nuclear energy. Lu highlighted its potential in heating, gas supply, desalination, isotope production and future hydrogen generation. "Multi-purpose applications are still in the early stages, but the synergy between nuclear power and the green economy will unlock a trillion-yuan market," he said.