The world's first commercial supercritical carbon dioxide power generator began operation in Guizhou province on Dec 20, marking a major milestone in the global shift toward high-efficiency waste heat recovery and the first successful transition of this technology from laboratory to commercial application.

The Chaotan One generator uses carbon dioxide instead of steam to transfer heat. When pressure exceeds 73 atmospheres and temperature exceeds 31 degrees Celsius, CO2 enters a density similar to liquid, enabling it to store more energy.

The supercritical CO2 power cycle used in the project has higher efficiency, faster response times, and a more compact design. The generator is expected to boost overall efficiency by over 85 percent and net output by more than 50 percent, generating about 70 million more kilowatt-hours annually and adding 30 million yuan ($4.26 million) in revenue.

The project is a collaboration between the Nuclear Power Institute of China and Jigang International Engineering and Technology Company, a subsidiary of Jigang Group based in Jinan. Since December 2023, the Jigang team has overcome over 200 technical challenges, solidifying the company's leading role in promoting low-carbon and green development in the iron and steel sector.

Jigang Group began its industrial transformation in 2017, focusing on aerospace information, manufacturing of high-end equipment and new materials, and industrial services. It has been listed among China's top 500 enterprises for four consecutive years.

Technicians monitor and control the world's first commercial supercritical CO2 power generator from a control room. [Photo/The New Times]