China has approved expansion projects at three nuclear power stations, according to a statement from the State Council released on Monday (31 July).

Six new nuclear units have been approved to expand three existing stations in Shandong province, Fujian province and Liaoning province, according to state news outlet China Daily.

China Daily said the six approved units are units 5 and 6 of the Ningde nuclear station in Fujian province, southeast China; units 1 and 2 of the Shidao Bay station, also known as Shidaowan, in Shandong province, eastern China; and units 1 and 2 of the Xudabu (also Xudapu or Xudabao) station in Liaoning province, northeast China.

This marks the first time this year that the government has given a green light to new nuclear power projects, China Daily said.