Why are most Western countries phasing out nuclear power, while China is vigorously developing it? Aren’t they afraid of nuclear leaks?

As the world’s first floating nuclear power plant, it breaks free from dependence on fixed land, offering a flexible and efficient electricity solution for energy-scarce or remote regions—and simultaneously opens up a new marine energy development market for Russia. ▲ Caption: This floating nuclear power plant is located in Pevek, Chukotka Autonomous Okrug. It can also be used for seawater desalination. (Image: Yituwang) From Hungary’s Paks II to Egypt’s El Dabaa nuclear power plant, Russia has successfully secured numerous orders across Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, leveraging its full-chain, integrated service model. As the country with the highest share of nuclear power in its electricity mix, France has developed a robust nuclear industrial system. Électricité de France (EDF) promotes the European Pressurized Reactor (EPR) technology, whose advanced design and high safety standards give it a prominent position in the global nuclear technology landscape. ▲ Caption: For several decades, France has consistently maintained the world’s highest share of nuclear power generation. However, this advanced technology also presents certain challenges. Take Finland’s Olkiluoto 3 unit as an example: its total investment approached $11 billion, and construction was delayed by over ten years; France’s Flamanville 3 unit faced similar cost overruns and delays. These issues expose difficulties in large-project management and cost control—especially when complex technologies and engineering are involved, where cost fluctuations and schedule slippages are nearly inevitable. ▲ Caption: Construction of the Olkiluoto 3 unit began in 2005. After multiple delays, it finally entered commercial operation in 2023. (Image: Construction site of Unit 3, Yituwang) In recent years, the United States has actively promoted a nuclear renaissance, aiming to reassert its global influence. Policy priorities include streamlining nuclear regulation, accelerating deployment of small modular reactors (SMRs), rebuilding the nuclear fuel supply chain, and restoring public trust through 'gold-standard science.' Additionally, the U.S. Inflation Reduction Act provides tax incentives, and the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation has begun financing overseas nuclear projects. Its 'Nuclear Energy Cooperation Program' aims to help Eastern European countries—including the Czech Republic and Poland—replace aging Soviet-designed reactors with American SMR technology, carrying clear geopolitical implications. ▲ Caption: Poland’s two major energy companies plan to jointly build small modular nuclear reactors. (Image: visegradpost.com) At this table, there are also some rising newcomers—such as South Korea. By constructing the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant in the UAE, South Korea successfully demonstrated its international competitiveness. Its strengths lie in rigorous project management and cost control, enabling on-schedule commissioning and earning market credibility. Yet domestically, South Korea’s nuclear policy swings between 'phase-out' and 'pro-nuclear' with changes in ruling parties—a volatility that undermines long-term industrial planning and erodes overseas customers’ confidence, posing a major concern for sustained export growth. ▲ Caption: Recently, Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power (KHNP) reached a cooperation agreement with the Czech Republic regarding construction of a new unit at the Dukovany Nuclear Power Plant. (Image: Yituwang) Some countries were once players at this table but have now completely withdrawn—such as Japan and Germany. Following the 2011 Fukushima nuclear accident, Japan’s domestic nuclear industry contracted sharply, directly leading to a collapse in its overseas competitiveness.

Polish state-owned enterprises are actively participating in nuclear energy technology development.

According to a February 16 report by Polskie Radio, Poland’s oil company PKN Orlen and Polish energy firm Synthos signed an agreement in June 2021 to expand the deployment of small and micro nuclear power units. PKN Orlen is now planning to establish a joint venture named Orlen Synthos Green Energy. This enterprise will oversee domestic construction projects for micro- and small nuclear reactors and commercialize nuclear energy in Poland. PKN Orlen will deploy small modular reactor (SMR) technology supplied by U.S.-based GE Hitachi Nuclear Energy. Daniel Obajtek, CEO of Orlen, stated: 'Our goal is to utilize the most efficient, affordable, and safest energy source—and to construct Poland’s first small reactor within this decade.' Investments in clean and low-carbon energy will boost Poland’s economic development, protect the natural environment, and generate numerous new jobs.

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