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Deeply Analyzing the Reference Significance of the "Sample" of Haiyan Nuclear Power
Nuclear power development is not something to fear. Despite the lingering shadow of Japan’s nuclear accident, many countries around the world are preparing to embrace a new wave of nuclear energy. Recently, local governments in China that have already built or are planning to build nuclear power plants have sent delegations to Haiyan County, Zhejiang Province—the home of China’s first nuclear power plant, Qinshan Nuclear Power Station. Their goal is to explore how nuclear power can coexist with local economic growth and environmental protection, addressing concerns about compatibility.
“I’m not afraid of people not knowing, nor am I afraid of them knowing everything. But what worries me is when they have only a little understanding,†said Zhang Jian, head of Haiyan County, during an interview with reporters and guests. He emphasized that Haiyan has one of the best air environments among Zhejiang’s counties, and its residents have no fear of nuclear pollution. Many nuclear experts and workers choose to retire in Haiyan, further reinforcing public confidence. Additionally, nuclear power has played a key role in driving the local economy, with nuclear-related industries generating billions of yuan annually.
Haiyan, located near the Qinshan Nuclear Power Plant, is now working with China National Nuclear Corporation (CNNC) to establish a “model†for cooperation between nuclear power and local development. Analysts believe that for local governments seeking to partner with large-scale nuclear projects, Haiyan will become a key destination—a sort of “holy site†for future nuclear initiatives.
Nuclear power is not scary in Haiyan. Since its establishment in 1983, the Qinshan Nuclear Power Station has operated smoothly for decades, shaping the county’s identity. Locals have grown up surrounded by nuclear culture. A taxi driver in Haiyan proudly told reporters, “We don’t just live next to a nuclear plant—we live with it.†Over the years, the county has made significant efforts to educate the public about nuclear energy, ensuring transparency and trust.
This is the second time our reporter has visited Haiyan. In 2012, we witnessed the launch of the “China Nuclear Power City†project, where multiple companies invested in related infrastructure. The county’s vision is clear: to support, rely on, and develop nuclear power as a core part of its economy.
Local officials describe the development of nuclear power in Haiyan as “deep-rooted.†For over 30 years, it has become a crucial part of the region’s social and economic life, creating a unique talent pool and a strong nuclear culture. In 2010, CNNC and Zhejiang Province signed an agreement to build the “China Nuclear Power City,†aiming to create a national hub for nuclear-related industries and promote collaboration between nuclear power and local development.
However, safety remains a top concern. Zhang Jian acknowledged public doubts and emphasized that Haiyan has actively engaged in public consultations to address fears. Many retired nuclear workers still live in the area, which he sees as a strong indicator of confidence in the safety of both the environment and the industry.
Looking ahead, Zhang Jian remains committed to the safe and orderly development of nuclear power, aiming to improve the country’s energy structure and air quality. He also stressed the importance of strengthening internal safety management and off-site emergency systems.
While China has laws like the “Radioactive Pollution Prevention and Control Law†to ensure nuclear safety, Zhang believes more legislative work is needed. He hopes the National People’s Congress will prioritize nuclear safety legislation, listening to local voices and protecting regional interests.
Li Dakuan, Party Secretary of Qinshan Nuclear Power Station, praised the long-term partnership between the nuclear plant and Haiyan, calling it a model of mutual benefit and shared progress. Over the past 30 years, the station has contributed significantly to Haiyan’s economy, supporting education, poverty alleviation, and cultural projects.
According to statistics, Qinshan has invested over 100 million yuan in Haiyan’s development and allocated more than 40 million yuan for social construction. The “China Nuclear Power City†is now a key example of successful cooperation, with an output value reaching 4 billion yuan.
Haiyan aims to become a prototype of a nuclear power city by 2015, focusing on high-tech services, equipment manufacturing, and safe nuclear use. With the completion of a 30,000-ton heavy-duty terminal, the area is well-positioned to support future nuclear-related industries.
The “Haiyan model†is seen as a replicable success story. Chen Hua, General Manager of China Nuclear Power Co., Ltd., hopes this model can be expanded to other regions. Xu Liuhua, Head of the Haiyan Nuclear Power Office, noted that relying on land finance has led to rising debt and housing prices. By focusing on nuclear power, local economies can find sustainable growth without excessive reliance on real estate.
With China reaffirming its commitment to nuclear energy, especially along the coast, some local governments are now looking to “eat from the nuclear table.†As Zhang Guobao, former director of the National Energy Administration, pointed out, nuclear power is a clean energy solution to both environmental and energy challenges.