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 200 MW 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 3000 t of desalinated water, planned to increase eventually to a capacity of 80 000 t.
The pool reactor was originally developed in China by a team led by Dr Tian Jiafu, now chief engineer of the Beida Jade New Energy Investment Co. 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.
