China Launches Largest Natural Uranium Production Project in Inner Mongolia
China National Nuclear Corporation (CNNC) has commenced construction on the country’s largest natural uranium production project in Ordos, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region. With an investment of approximately 1.5 billion yuan ($206.82 million), this project represents a significant step forward in China’s nuclear industry development and energy security.
The Ordos project will employ state-of-the-art green and digital mining systems and technologies to minimize emissions, promote sustainable development, and enable remote monitoring. This aligns with China’s broader goals of reducing greenhouse gas emissions and transitioning to cleaner energy sources. (Source: Global Times, June 15, 2024)
Strategic Importance of Natural Uranium
Natural uranium is a crucial strategic resource and energy mineral that forms the material basis for China’s nuclear industry development. Ensuring a stable and secure supply of natural uranium is paramount for national security and energy independence. The Ordos project will significantly enhance China’s capacity for natural uranium production and strengthen its independent innovation capabilities in this domain.
China’s Growing Nuclear Power Capacity
As of May 2024, China has 55 operational commercial nuclear power units with a total installed capacity of 57.03 million kilowatts, ranking third globally behind the United States and France. From January to May 2024, China’s nuclear power plants generated 58.08 million kilowatt-hours of electricity, marking a 2.3 percent year-on-year increase. (Source: National Energy Administration, June 2024)
The expansion of nuclear power capacity is a key component of China’s strategy to reduce reliance on coal-fired power plants and mitigate climate change. Nuclear energy offers a cleaner alternative that can help the country meet its growing energy demands while curbing greenhouse gas emissions. The Ordos natural uranium production project will play a vital role in supporting this transition by ensuring a reliable supply of fuel for China’s nuclear power plants.
