VI
EN
China General Nuclear Power Group (CGNPG) has just made a major breakthrough in the tourism industry by launching an online booking system allowing visitors to tour nine nuclear power plants across the country. Throughout the world, people will have the opportunity to explore some of the most massive and modern energy facilities.
The company also published a tourist information booklet for visitors, including maps of the nuclear power plant's facilities, according to an announcement on its official WeChat account.
Another option is the Fangchenggang plant in Guangxi, which houses the advanced Hualong One reactors, near the popular tourist islands of the Jing ethnic minority. Notably, the San'ao nuclear power plant under construction near the Wenzhou coast has become a favorite photo spot for many influencers.
Instead of being just closed-off power plants, nuclear facilities in China are now opening their doors to tourists.
In addition to promoting local tourism, CGN expects this initiative to enhance public confidence in the nuclear industry through the sharing of information on radiation control and safety.
Public support for the industry is crucial as China expands its nuclear fleet, aiming for carbon neutrality by 2060. Currently, China is building 30 reactors, accounting for nearly half of all reactors under construction globally.
Besides promoting local tourism, CGNPG also hopes this initiative can enhance public confidence in the nuclear industry by sharing information on relevant topics, such as radiation control and nuclear safety.
Bloomberg suggests that public support in China is a key factor in Beijing's success in expanding and developing its nuclear energy sector, aiming for the ambitious goal of completely eliminating greenhouse gas emissions by 2060.
Speaking at the launch event, Guo Xingang, spokesperson for CGN, said: "This is not only an activity to popularize science to the public but also a significant breakthrough in the field of nuclear tourism. This initiative will not only enhance public understanding and confidence in nuclear energy but also contribute to the sustainable development of the national nuclear power industry."
China has created a unique and highly educational form of tourism.
Industry experts say professionally organized tours of nuclear facilities have high educational value and that such tours could also boost rural tourism in areas with nuclear power plants, according to a CGN press release.
"My trip to the nuclear power plant was fascinating and worthwhile. The nuclear base is no longer a mysterious and awe-inspiring place to me," said Lei Lingli, a tourist visiting the nuclear power plant in Ningde.
According to China's Atomic Energy Administration, nuclear power generation in mainland China reached 440,000 gigawatt-hours in 2023, accounting for nearly 5% of the country's total electricity production. Xinhua News Agency reported that as of the end of 2023, there were 55 operational nuclear power plants and 36 more that had been approved or were under construction in mainland China.
