China completes non‑nuclear test for Linglong‑1, world's first commercial modular small reactor
China's Linglong‑1, the world's first onshore commercial modular small reactor, has successfully completed its non‑nuclear steam flushing test at the Changjiang demonstration site in Hainan Province. The test verified the performance of the steam turbine generator system, confirming that all core conventional island systems are functioning to specification.
The system operated stably throughout the test, with all parameters meeting design standards. This milestone lays the groundwork for the next phase: nuclear flushing and grid connection.
Construction of Linglong‑1 began in July 2021. Once operational, the reactor is expected to generate 1 billion kWh of electricity annually-enough to meet the clean energy needs of approximately 526,000 households. The project marks a major step forward in the commercialization of small modular reactor (SMR) technology in China.
Linglong‑1 is China's first independently developed onshore commercial modular pressurized water reactor. Its successful testing highlights the country's growing capabilities in advanced nuclear engineering and its commitment to transforming the national energy structure through cleaner, more flexible power solutions.
Linglong‑1 is part of China National Nuclear Corporation's (CNNC) broader strategy to develop safe, scalable nuclear energy solutions. CNNC is one of China's largest state‑owned energy enterprises, with operations spanning nuclear power generation, fuel cycle services, and reactor design. The company has been instrumental in advancing China's third‑generation reactor technologies, including the Hualong One and Linglong‑1 platforms, and continues to promote international cooperation in peaceful nuclear development.
