Nuclear power in China. Status and trends

China is one of the countries with a very fast growth of electricity generation. Although the amounts of both electrical capacity and electricity generation have reached the fourth position in the world, they are still far from meeting the demands for development of the national economy. The Chinese government places first priority on the development of new energy sources, especially for electricity generation. The conventional energy sources in China are abundant, but they are not evenly distributed. To cope with transportation problem, the shortage of the energy supply and the impact of fossil fuelled power plants on the environment, it is necessary to use nuclear power. Therefore, great importance is attached to the position and role of nuclear power as an alternative energy source. The paper discusses the status of development of nuclear power and the challenges faced regarding technical economic and other aspects. China has an open door policy with regard to the development of nuclear power. Advanced equipment and technology will be imported as well as management techniques, and measures will be taken to attract foreign financiers and specialists. Co-operation with foreign countries in the design and manufacture of nuclear power plants is also encouraged. (author)