China connects small fast-neutron reactor to its power grid

China is claiming a breakthrough in the generation of nuclear energy with the introduction of a so-called "fast breeder" 20-megagwatt reactor to its power grid at 40 per cent capacity. The next generation reactors are based on a technology that uses uranium fuel more efficiently. The experimental reactor was built by the China Institute of Atomic Energy with help from the Russian government. It took a decade to build and began generating power one year ago. Today's announcement indicates that it is now producing electricity for the country's power grid.

Fast reactors reduce radioactive waste by using up to 70 per cent of the fuel during the nuclear reaction, according to the World Nuclear Association. Existing pressurized water reactors use only 1 per cent of the fuel. It could also help the country reduce its reliance on imports of uranium. China is the ninth country to develop a fast-neutron reactor.

China plans to build a 1-gigawatt fast reactor in 2018 using home-grown technology. China started its first commercial nuclear plant in 1994 and currently has the highest number of atomic facilities under construction, 28 according to data from the World Nuclear Association. It may have more than 100 reactors in operation by 2020.