China has approved two nuclear power projects in the coastal provinces of Hainan and Zhejiang, at an expected cost of 70 billion yuan ($10.24bn), the South China Morning Post and state media reported.

According to state radio the approved projects were Changjiang phase 2 in Hainan, southern China, and a station referred to as San’ao, or Sanao phase 1 in Zhejiang, on the east coast south of Shanghai.

Reports did not give details of the number of reactors or the technology to be used. They said the Hainan facility is expected to be finished by 2026 and Zhejiang by 2025.

“Pushing forward the construction of nuclear power projects actively and steadily is an important measure to expand effective investment, enhance energy support and reduce greenhouse gas emissions,” the cabinet said in an official statement.