Two of China’s recent nuclear reactor start-ups are progressing towards full operations. A final test-run has begun in preparation for commercial operation at Ningde 2, while Hongyanhe 2 is now operating at 100% power for the first time.

The 168-hour test-run at China General Nuclear Power Corporation’s (CGN’s) Ningde 2 is the last of a series of online operational exercises before the 1020 MWe unit begins full-power operations. The CPR-1000 pressurized water reactor was connected to the grid in January, and will be one of four at the site in north-east Fujian province, co-owned by CGN (46%), China Datang Corp (44%) and Fujian Energy Group (10%).

Ningde 1 entered commercial operation in 2013, and Ningde 3 and 4 are expected to begin operations in 2014 and 2015 respectively.

Meanwhile, CGN has announced that Hongyanhe 2 has reached 100% power for the first time. The unit, also a CPR-1000, was declared in commercial operation in February after being connected to the grid last November.

Hongyanhe is owned and operated by Liaoning Hongyanhe Nuclear Power Co, a joint venture in which CGN holds a 45% stake alongside China Power Investment Corp (45%) and Dalian Municipal Construction Investment Co (10%). Two further units at the site are expected to start up by the end of 2015.