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Deeply Analyzing the Reference Significance of the "Sample" of Haiyan Nuclear Power
Nuclear power development is not something to be feared. Although the shadow of Japan’s nuclear leak still lingers, many countries around the world are preparing to embark on a new wave of nuclear energy development. Recently, local governments in China that have already built or are planning to build nuclear power projects 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 address concerns about the compatibility of nuclear power with local economic growth and environmental protection.
“I’m not afraid of what you don’t know, nor am I afraid of you knowing everything about it. But what I fear is being a little informed,†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 counties. The locals do not fear nuclear pollution, as many nuclear experts and workers choose to retire and live in Haiyan. Additionally, nuclear power has played a significant role in boosting the local economy, with related industries generating billions of yuan annually.
Haiyan, backed by the Qinshan Nuclear Power Plant, is also working with China National Nuclear Corporation to develop a “sea salt model†for cooperative and win-win growth. Analysts believe that for local governments looking 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. The Qinshan Nuclear Power Station, one of China’s earliest nuclear facilities, has been operating smoothly since 1983. The county itself is deeply integrated with nuclear culture.
On the way to Haiyan, a local taxi driver couldn’t help but share the town's unique feature: nuclear power. “It’s no exaggeration to say I’ve learned more about nuclear energy in recent years. The county has done a great job in public education,†he told the reporter.
This is the second time the reporter has visited Haiyan. In June 2012, they witnessed the start of the “China Nuclear Power City†project. At that time, companies like CNNC’s China Nuclear Industry No.2 Construction Co., Ltd. and others decided to invest in related projects. The county’s vision was clear: “supporting nuclear power, relying on nuclear power, and developing sea salt.â€
According to a local official, Haiyan’s nuclear development has become increasingly foundational. “We’re not novices anymore,†they said during a brief exchange.
For over 30 years, nuclear power has become an essential part of life in Haiyan. It has created a unique talent pool and a strong nuclear culture. In 2010, a major agreement was signed between China National Nuclear Corporation and Zhejiang Provincial Government to build “China Nuclear Power City,†aiming to create a national-level cluster of nuclear-related industries and deepen cooperation between nuclear power and the local economy.
However, safety remains a concern. Zhang Jian admitted that people often question the safety of nuclear projects. To address this, Haiyan has actively engaged in public consultations. “There is no harm from radiation, and some villagers have raised concerns about cancer rates, but we have answers,†he said.
The nuclear operators themselves have shown their trust by choosing to live in Haiyan. “They have homes in Beijing and here, but most prefer to stay in Haiyan. That shows their confidence in both nuclear safety and the environment,†Zhang added.
Looking ahead, Zhang Jian remains committed to the development of nuclear power. He hopes for safe and orderly progress, contributing to the country’s energy structure and air quality. “We must prioritize people and safety, strengthen internal management, and improve off-site emergency systems,†he said.
China’s nuclear safety regulations, including the Radioactive Pollution Prevention and Control Law, provide a legal basis. However, Zhang believes more legislation is needed to reassure the public. He urged the National People’s Congress to conduct legislative investigations and accelerate the development of nuclear energy laws to protect local interests.
Li Dakuan, Party Secretary of Qinshan Nuclear Power Station, praised the long-term collaboration between nuclear power and Haiyan. Over the past 30 years, this partnership has brought substantial benefits, including economic growth, improved education, employment opportunities, and environmental protection.
Statistics show that Qinshan has invested over 100 million yuan in Haiyan’s economic construction and 40 million yuan in social projects, supporting education, poverty alleviation, and cultural development.
Qinshan’s “China Nuclear Power City†is a prime example of successful cooperation. Its output value has reached 4 billion yuan, serving as a platform for technological upgrades and industry development.
Haiyan aims to establish a “one city and three regions†model, focusing on nuclear science and technology, equipment manufacturing, and safe nuclear use. By 2015, the city plans to form a complete nuclear power industry system with high technical standards and broad influence.
With the approval of nuclear power cities and high-tech industrial bases, Haiyan is building a nuclear-related industrial base to serve the nation and the world. By 2015, the base will be fully operational, supporting national energy needs.
In Li Dakuan’s view, the development of nuclear power in Haiyan serves as a valuable “model.†Chen Hua, General Manager of China Nuclear Power Co., Ltd., hopes this model can be replicated across other regions.
Xu Liuhua, head of the Haiyan Nuclear Power Office, emphasized that the nuclear power city is designed to attract growth and support the local economy. With the completion of a 30,000-ton heavy-duty terminal, Haiyan is well-positioned to support the development of nuclear-related industries.
As China continues to expand its nuclear energy program, local governments are finding new ways to grow without relying on land finance. This shift could lead to a more sustainable and balanced economic model.
Zhang Guobao, former director of the National Energy Administration, highlighted the need to adjust China’s energy structure due to environmental and energy challenges. Nuclear power, as a clean energy source, is gaining increasing attention and support.