29: Chapter 29: First Commercial Stack Connected to the Grid, Electricity Prices Plunge

The aftershocks of the Zhulong ignition and the financial smoke from the Star Continent Consortium clashed and fermented intensely in the world outside the Sky Dome base. However, within this fortress of thought buried deep beneath the plateau's permafrost, the density of time seemed infinitely compressed. All mental capacity and computing power were poured into solving problems that spanned several orders of magnitude, from the microscopic to the macroscopic.

The theoretical deductions of the Deep Blue group unexpectedly opened a brand-new path of exploration, thanks to Stardust's bold hypothesis analogizing 'Interfacial Topological Superconductivity' with 'Plasma Magnetohydrodynamic Topological Stability.' Lin Shen coordinated Tide and Topologist to begin constructing an extremely simplified model of 'dynamic coupling between effective topological order parameter fields and macroscopic electromagnetic fields.' This model was essentially a mathematical framework for a thought experiment, aiming to investigate: if a substance existed whose order parameter for superconductivity or similar macroscopic quantum coherent states possessed non-trivial topological textures (such as vortex lattices, skyrmions, etc.), would the interaction between these topological textures and external fields produce an effect similar to 'negative feedback' or 'resonant absorption' when placed in a changing magnetic or electric current environment? Could this theoretically provide a brand-new 'active control' mechanism for plasma stability or heating based on the intrinsic quantum properties of materials?

This sounded like a forced graft of quantum mechanics and classical magnetohydrodynamics, full of idealizations and approximations. But the powerful computing power of the heart of deep blue allowed them to perform extensive parameter scans on this highly simplified model, searching for any possible non-trivial signs of coupling.

At the same time, Lin Shen did not relax his analysis of the strictly filtered data continuously sent by the Zhulong engineering team. He maintained close communication with Shen Hong (via an independent encrypted link), focusing on the specific bottlenecks Zhulong encountered in extending discharge times and increasing plasma density and temperature. Data on the thermo-electromagnetic stress distribution of high-temperature superconducting magnets during transient processes, the interaction between the plasma boundary and the first-wall materials (erosion, impurity injection), and the preliminary irradiation effects of fusion neutrons on surrounding component materials were all included in his comprehensive analytical scope.

He had a faint feeling that Zhulong was not just a fusion experimental device; it was more like a multi-physics field coupling 'super-probe' in an extreme environment. The data generated by its operation held inestimable value for verifying and developing a series of cutting-edge theories (materials science, plasma physics, neutron physics, superconducting technology, etc.).

Under this state of multi-track progress, where highly divergent and focused thinking alternated, during an ordinary late night on the plateau, Lin Shen's gaze was firmly captured by a set of data while reviewing the latest high-throughput calculation results submitted by Weaver regarding 'potential high-temperature/room-temperature superconducting interface candidate material pairs.'

When Weaver's algorithm scanned a set of van der Waals heterojunctions formed by 'monolayer Tungsten Diselenide (WSe2) of a specific crystal phase and a surface-modified Hafnium Dioxide (HfO2) dielectric layer,' the calculations showed that under theoretically specific stacking angles and micro-strains, not only did flat-band features similar to those previously discovered by Topologist appear at the interface, but the electron-phonon coupling strength λ was estimated at an abnormally high value, far exceeding conventional materials. More critically, the model predicted that this interface might possess a dynamic electron pairing instability induced by charge transfer and interlayer coupling, strongly resonating with specific optical phonon modes. Its characteristic energy scale corresponded to an equivalent temperature that, under the model's simplified assumptions, actually reached above the liquid nitrogen range (77K) and even approached the edge of room temperature (~250K)!

Next to the report, Weaver had used striking red to mark a massive uncertainty: 'Warning: This result is derived based on specific Density Functional Theory (DFT) functionals and simplified coupling models. Key factors such as strong correlation corrections, interfacial disorder, and thermal effects have not been considered. The probability of realistic realization is extremely low; this is merely a theoretical anomaly.'

Despite the conspicuous warning, the appearance of this 'anomaly' still made Lin Shen's heart skip a beat. WSe2 is an important member of the Transition Metal Dichalcogenide (TMDC) family with rich and tunable electronic properties; HfO2 is a mature dielectric material in the microelectronics industry. If this combination truly possessed such strong interfacial coupling potential, even if only under extremely ideal conditions, it was worth investigating deeply!

He immediately highlighted this result, attached his own preliminary analysis, and sent it to all members of the Deep Blue group. He requested Weaver to perform higher-precision calculations on the system (such as considering more electron correlation effects and more realistic interface structure models) while asking Tide and Stardust to evaluate the compatibility of its theoretical mechanism with the 'interface-driven' model they were developing.

The exploration of the Deep Blue project seemed to be gradually converging through the fog of theoretical data toward a certain 'isolated island' where signs of 'room temperature' might be hidden—even if this 'island' might just be a mirage.

However, just as Lin Shen and the Deep Blue group were laboriously trekking through the theoretical clouds toward that faint hope, a much larger, more direct, and more impactful energy ripple erupted in the real world with a speed and manner no one had anticipated!

The news first arrived through the 'Longyuan' level emergency notification channel of the Jiuzhang Special Project headquarters. Immediately following, global news media, energy markets, and even the emergency response systems of various governments were completely ignited by the same explosive news—

The Dragon Kingdom National Energy Group and the Chinese Academy of Sciences jointly announced: the world's first modular small lead-based fast neutron reactor (code-named qilin-1) demonstration project, completely designed, built, and owned with full intellectual property rights by the nation, successfully achieved first criticality at midnight today in a certain location in the Northwest, and officially connected to the grid for power generation at 10:00 AM!

qilin-1 was not a traditional pressurized water reactor, but a fourth-generation advanced nuclear energy system using lead or lead-bismuth alloy as a coolant. Its single-reactor thermal power was only 200MW (electric power about 80MW), featuring a modular design and factory prefabrication for flexible deployment. Official data showed that its construction period was reduced by more than 40% compared to traditional nuclear power plants of the same scale. It also possessed higher inherent safety (negative temperature coefficient, normal pressure operation, strong natural convection capability of the coolant at high temperatures, etc.), higher nuclear fuel utilization, and lower nuclear waste production.

Most critically—according to real-time monitoring data after grid connection, the feed-in tariff for the qilin-1 demonstration reactor, after initial operational amortization, was expected to stabilize at a shocking 0.15 RMB per kilowatt-hour! This was only equivalent to about one-fourth of the current average domestic coal-fired electricity price and far lower than the cost of natural gas power generation, which had soared due to the oil crisis!

0.15 RMB per degree!

This number, like a super lightning bolt tearing through the pitch-black sky, instantly pierced the thick clouds accumulated in the global energy market due to the Star Continent Consortium's sniping and geopolitical tensions!

The briefing included more technical details: the rapid success of qilin-1 was inseparable from breakthroughs in materials science (new alloys resistant to high temperatures, radiation, and lead-bismuth corrosion), advanced manufacturing processes (modular welding, remote assembly), and revolutionary progress in intelligent monitoring and safety systems for nuclear reactors (reportedly applying the latest AI predictive maintenance and autonomous control algorithms). Its successful grid connection marked that the Dragon Kingdom had achieved a decisive leading position on the path to practical application of fourth-generation nuclear energy technology!

As Lin Shen looked at the briefing, many fragments of information instantly connected in his mind: a few years ago, there had been sporadic reports in the Xinghai database about tackling key technologies for lead-based fast reactors; there had seemingly been low-profile but continuous investment domestically in radiation-resistant materials and high-performance nuclear pumps and valves; and Academician Qin had mentioned even earlier that the nation was laying out a 'diverse, complementary, and self-controllable' energy system...

It turned out that qilin-1 was one of the nation's true 'trump cards' for dealing with the energy crisis and external blockades! It did not rely on scarce Uranium-235 (it could use depleted uranium or even nuclear waste), did not rely on fragile international oil and gas supply chains, produced no greenhouse gases, and possessed the advantages of rapid deployment and scalability! Its electricity price as low as 0.15 RMB was not just an economic subversion, but a strategic declaration: the Dragon Kingdom had the ability to fundamentally break the energy predicament through independent technological innovation!

Almost at the same time the news of qilin-1's grid connection was announced, the reaction of the global financial markets was like a scene from a disaster movie:

International crude oil futures prices performed a 'high-dive,' plummeting more than 20% on top of the crash created by the Star Continent Consortium, breaking below the $100/barrel mark and causing massive long positions to liquidate.

Natural gas prices plummeted simultaneously.

New energy (photovoltaic, wind power) stocks fluctuated violently due to expectations of a drastic change in the future power cost structure.

Conversely, the stock prices of Dragon Kingdom's listed companies involved in nuclear power construction, high-end equipment manufacturing, and special materials soared against the market trend, boosting confidence across the entire A-share market.

The US Dollar Index saw increased volatility, and capital flows showed signs of chaos.

The energy-financial sniping meticulously planned by the Star Continent Consortium appeared so pale and weak in the face of the 'strategic nuclear bomb' level achievement of qilin-1. It might even backfire on them due to their excessive shorting in the crude oil market!

In the encrypted communication Director Zhao sent afterward, his tone carried a rare passion and relief: "Comrade Lin Shen, the 'Qilin' has left the gate, and the energy chessboard is renewed! This is not the end, but a new starting point. It proves the correctness of our energy strategic route and wins more precious time, space, and confidence for us exploring more cutting-edge and ultimate energy solutions (like the fusion research you are conducting)! The outside world will surely be in total disarray now; scrutiny and counter-measures will follow one after another. Projects like Zhulong and Deep Blue need to be even more low-profile, but we can also use this opportunity to accelerate progress! I hope you and the team continue to dive deep and build up strength for a great breakthrough!"

Lin Shen could feel the weight and expectation in Director Zhao's words. The success of qilin-1 was a victory for the nation, the crystallization of decades of hard work by countless anonymous engineers and scientists. It was like a towering mountain that suddenly rose, temporarily blocking the wind and rain from the outside world, and providing a solid backstop and breathing room for explorers like them climbing more distant and perilous paths.

He immediately conveyed the news of qilin-1's grid connection and Director Zhao's instructions to the Deep Blue group and all the project teams he was responsible for. There was no excessive cheering, only a more quiet focus. Everyone understood that the true contest was far from over, and the road ahead was still long.

Dawn arrived on the plateau once again, and golden sunlight spilled across the studio through the simulated exterior scenery.

Lin Shen stood before the screen, looking at that virtual yet incredibly real rising sun, his heart filled with unprecedentedly complex emotions. There was heartfelt admiration for the qilin-1 team, shock at the nation's powerful will and execution, satisfaction at the Star Continent Consortium's sniping being thwarted, but more than anything, a heavy sense of responsibility and urgency.

The 'Qilin' guarded the present and illuminated the path of reality.

But they had to find that truly eternal 'sun' for the future.

The computing power of the heart of deep blue galloped silently, Zhulong's data flowed continuously, and the theoretical island of 'interface-induced room-temperature superconductivity' loomed faintly in the mist.

Electricity prices could plummet, but the will to explore would never sink.