CNNC has used the latest technology to develop the new type of reactors, Li noted. The reactors can be used in the construction of new nuclear power plants, beginning as early as 2001, when the 10th Five-Year Plan (2001-05) begins, Li said.

The new reactors will mean lower construction and operation costs for nuclear power plants because reactors will not have to be imported, Li added.

Experts said new reactor is a significant milestone for China.

In 1991, the first phase of the Qinshan Nuclear Power Plant in East China's Zhejiang Province, with a capacity of 300 megawatts, went into operation. It was the first nuclear power plant with equipment solely designed, manufactured and operated by China. The 600-megawatt second phase, also undertaken solely by China, will be completed by 2002.

CNNC helped Pakistan build the 300-megawatt Chashma Nuclear Power Plant.

China's total nuclear power capacity has reached 2,100 megawatts. Currently, four nuclear power plants with a total installed capacity of 6,600 megawatts are under construction in China.

Five months ago, China reshuffled its nuclear industry management and operational structure.
The construction wing of CNNC was split from the corporation to form a new company, China Nuclear Engineering Construction Corp.

CNNC now focuses on nuclear power and nuclear fuel as its core businesses.

It transferred its governmental administrative functions to the State Commission of Science, Technology and Industry for National Defence.

(China Daily 12/16/1999)