China's first third-generation nuclear reactor put into operation

The first reactor adopting China's third-generation nuclear reactor technology has been put into commercial operation, announced China National Nuclear Corporation in Beijing on Saturday.

The opening of the reactor, Fuqing No.5 nuclear power unit, indicates that China now is one of the leading countries in nuclear power technology.

The technology adopted by the reactor, Hualong One, is independently developed by China with its more than 30 years of experience on nuclear reactor research, design, manufacturing, construction and operation. 

The reactor started construction on May 7, 2015. Involving nearly 200,000 people, the project built a whole system of third-generation nuclear reactor model standards totally developed by China.

The reactor is expected to significantly enhance the competitiveness of China's nuclear power industry. At the same time, it will play an important role in optimizing China's energy structure and promoting green development.

MG