CHINA China is planning to build a nuclear reactor that will provide energy for heating and desalination in Yingkou, Liaoning province, according to a memorandum of understanding signed with the Beida Jade Bird Group.
The first phase of the project involves construction of a 200MWt pool-type reactor. It will cost around $40 million. According to the developers the unit will be able to provide heating for 5 million m2 of office space or provide 3000t of desalinated water, planned to increase eventually to a capacity of 80,000t.
The pool reactor was originally developed in China by a team led by Dr Tian Jiafu, now chief engineer of Beida Jade New Energy Investment. He sees significant potential for the technology in northern China where the winters last from four to six months.
China also has a severe water shortage problem, with per capita fresh water supply only one quarter of the world average.
