The Zhangzhou-1 nuclear power plant in Fujian province, eastern China, has been connected to the grid and has “met all conditions for commercial operation”, according to China National Nuclear Corporation (CNNC), quoted by state media.

China Nuclear Energy Association (CNEA) said the plant was connected to the grid at 07:46 local time on 28 November and began to deliver the first kilowatt-hour of electricity to the grid.

Commercial operation of Zhangzhou-1 would bring the number of nuclear power plants online in China to 57, with 28 under construction, according to International Atomic Energy Agency data.

In terms of the number of reactors in operation, this would move China past France, which has 56, into second place. The US is first with 94 units.