China starts up largest nuclear generator

China has started up its largest nuclear power generator, the first to go into operation at a $3.2 billion facility in eastern Jiangsu province, an official said on Monday. The Russian-designed No.1 generator of the Tianwan nuclear power station, which has an installed capacity of 1,060 megawatts, would begin commercial production by the end of this year, the official, who declined to be named, said.

Officials began loading fuel to the generator last week and it proceeded smoothly, he said. The first phase of the Tianwan nuclear station has two 1,060-MW generators, the largest Sino-Russian cooperation project.