China’s Thorium Reactor: US Lags in Nuclear Energy Race
China has achieved a significant breakthrough in clean energy with the successful refueling of its operational thorium molten salt reactor, marking the first sustained operation of this technology. This experimental 2-megawatt reactor, located in the Gobi Desert, utilizes thorium—a plentiful and safer alternative to uranium—dissolved in molten salt as both fuel and coolant. The achievement places China at the forefront of global thorium reactor development. Experts suggest this technology could revolutionize energy production, potentially providing a long-term, sustainable energy solution for China and beyond.