Review and Prospects for Converting Coal Plants to Nuclear Plants
(By Li Xiaoyu, Hu Ye, and Chen Zhiying — CPECC Southwest Electric Power Design Institute & China Power Engineering Consulting Group)
Summary:
This new technical paper from the China Power Engineering Consulting Group (CPECC) explores one of the most forward-looking energy transition pathways in China — converting existing coal-fired power plants into nuclear power plants (“Coal-to-Nuclear” or C2N).
The study reviews the current status of this emerging field both domestically and internationally, including U.S. and European pilot projects, and evaluates China’s own potential for such conversions. It identifies the main technical, regulatory, and siting challenges, while outlining key scenarios where C2N could deliver major benefits — such as rapid decarbonisation in coastal provinces, integration with pumped hydro storage, and synergies with green hydrogen production.
The authors conclude that C2N offers significant promise for China’s long-term carbon neutrality goals, enabling direct capacity substitution, reusing valuable infrastructure, and cutting construction costs. Though complex, the transformation is considered technically feasible and strategically important for China’s medium- and long-term energy security.
Read the full report below to explore the methods, challenges, and strategic outlook for Coal-to-Nuclear (C2N) development in China.