China launches world's first fourth-generation nuclear reactor

More than 90 per cent of the Shidao Bay plant's equipment is of Chinese design. - Xinhua

BEIJING: China began commercial operations of the world's first next-generation, gas-cooled nuclear reactor power plant, state media reported Wednesday (Dec 6).

The Shidao Bay plant in eastern Shandong province is powered by two high-temperature reactors cooled by gas rather than pressurised water, according to state news agency Xinhua, making it more efficient and cost-effective.