A Historic Partnership
Energy technology has long been a vital area of collaboration between China and France. Over the past 60 years, since the establishment of diplomatic relations, the two countries have leveraged their respective strengths to drive innovation and achieve significant breakthroughs in energy technology. Their cooperation spans across various domains, including civilian nuclear energy, oil and gas resource development, and clean energy, setting a global standard for international scientific and industrial collaboration.
Achievements in Civilian Nuclear Energy
Daya Bay
One of the most remarkable outcomes of this partnership is the Daya Bay Nuclear Power Plant in Guangdong province, China. As the first million-kilowatt-class commercial nuclear power plant in mainland China, Daya Bay has been a cornerstone of China’s nuclear power industry. This project was made possible through the introduction of French nuclear power technology and equipment, marking a significant milestone in the China-France relationship.
The collaboration began in December 1978, when China decided to adopt French nuclear technology. To ensure success, over 100 Chinese technicians were sent to France for training, gaining valuable experience in the operation, maintenance, and management of nuclear power plants.
Taishan Nuclear Power Plant
In the 21st century, China and France continued to strengthen their partnership in nuclear energy. This led to the construction of the Taishan Nuclear Power Plant, also in Guangdong province. Taishan is the world’s first plant to use European Pressurized Reactor (EPR) technology, a third-generation nuclear power solution. This facility sets a new global benchmark for nuclear energy development.
Innovation in Energy Technology
Joint Research and Development
China and France have maintained extensive and sustained research partnerships in the field of nuclear energy technology. These efforts have led to the establishment of joint laboratories and successful implementation of numerous cooperative projects, further enhancing the technological capabilities of both nations.
Sustainable Aviation Fuel: A Green Milestone
The partnership between China Petrochemical Corporation (Sinopec) and French energy company TotalEnergies has recently led to the joint operation of a new production line for sustainable aviation fuel, also known as biojet fuel. Produced from waste oils and fats, this innovative fuel reduces carbon dioxide emissions by over 50% compared to traditional petroleum-based aviation fuels. The collaboration is expected to significantly contribute to the aviation industry’s green transformation.
Development of Oil and Gas Resources
TotalEnergies’ Role in China
TotalEnergies, a global leader in oil and gas, has played a crucial role in China’s oil and gas technology innovation. The company has been involved in various exploration activities across China, including regions such as Bohai Bay and the South China Sea. Through cooperation, TotalEnergies and its Chinese counterparts have enhanced their technological capabilities and achieved mutual benefits.
Global Cooperation in Oil and Gas
Expanding into the international oil and gas market has been a key goal of China-France cooperation. TotalEnergies and its Chinese partners have formed strong synergies, establishing successful partnerships in regions such as the Middle East and Africa.
Advancements in Clean Energy
Offshore Wind Power
In clean energy, China and France’s cooperation is flourishing. The Groix Island offshore wind power project in northwestern France, developed by China General Nuclear Power Group (CGN) and French partner Eolfi, is a pioneering demonstration of floating offshore wind power technology.
EDF’s Leadership in Offshore Wind and Solar Power
EDF, France’s leading electric utility company, has made significant strides in China’s clean energy sector. The phase-5 offshore wind power project in Dongtai, Jiangsu province, developed with China Energy Investment Group (CHN Energy), represents the first offshore wind power project in China with both domestic and foreign investment. EDF has also ventured into solar photovoltaic projects, contributing to China’s green energy development.
A Bright Future for China-France Energy Cooperation
The partnership between China and France in the energy sector continues to evolve, setting a global example of win-win cooperation. As both countries push the boundaries of innovation in nuclear energy, sustainable fuels, and clean energy technologies, their collaboration not only benefits their respective industries but also contributes to global efforts toward a more sustainable future.
