China has begun construction of its first third-generation pressurized water reactors using technologies developed by U.S.-based Westinghouse. The reactors, located in Sanmen, in east China's Zhejiang Province, will also be the first in the world to use such technologies.

Photo taken on April 18, 2009 shows the foundational construction site of the No.1 unit of the first phase of the Sanmen nuclear plant in Zhejiang Province. The Sanmen nuclear plant, with the world's first nuclear plant using the AP1000 technologies, a type of third generation nuclear power reactor introduced by America's Westinghouse company, started the construction recently. [Tan Jin/Xinhua]

The nuclear power plant will be built in three phases. An investment of more than 40 billion yuan will be spent on the first phase. This will include two generating units, each with a capacity of 1.25 million kw. The units will be put into operation in 2013 and 2014 respectively. The plant will eventually have six such units.

Speaking at Sunday's inauguration ceremony, Vice Premier Li Keqiang urged more effort to develop new energy facilities. He said this would ensure the nation's energy security and boost economic growth. He called on enterprises to adopt advanced technology and enhance self-innovation.

(CCTV April 20, 2009)