China to improve nuclear emergency protocols

Wants to ensure citizens are better prepared for a nuclear emergency.

China’s revised “Nuclear Emergency Response Plan” builds on the original emergency measures that have been in effect since 2005. It comes in the wake of China's own nuclear energy operation and Japan's Fukushima nuclear accident. The new plan highlights detailed command and organization procedures in the event of a nuclear emergency.

It scientifically sets out hierarchical responsibilities, peacetime standby operations and rapid response procedures in the form of working guidelines. Officials said the new plan is more practical, more detailed, and more operable than the old version. China maintains 17 operational nuclear power generators with a total installed capacity of 14,760 megawatts.

The further 28 generators now being built are expected to expand China’s capacity by 28,300 megawatts. Despite this rapid expansion, nuclear power currently accounts for only 2% of China's power generation. Thermal power is the country's energy leader, accounting for 75%.