Story perspectives

China’s nuclear expansion likely continues despite extreme weather

8/28/2026

Summary

Story summary

World Nuclear Association China director Francois Morin says China’s nuclear sector will likely keep expanding despite extreme weather.
European reactors many sited on rivers faced shutdowns from heat and drought this summer.
France whose nuclear power provides about 70% of electricity experienced over 20% capacity shortfall reported by Le Monde on August 11.
Chinese plants are coastal and use open seawater for cooling reducing vulnerability to drought.

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Story summary

World Nuclear Association China director Francois Morin says China’s nuclear sector will likely keep expanding despite extreme weather.
European reactors many sited on rivers faced shutdowns from heat and drought this summer.
France whose nuclear power provides about 70% of electricity experienced over 20% capacity shortfall reported by Le Monde on August 11.
Chinese plants are coastal and use open seawater for cooling reducing vulnerability to drought.