China: Operators of joint Chinese-French nuclear plant in Taishan report performance issue at facility June 14

Event

A French company, which is the joint operator of the Taishan Nuclear Power Plant in Guangdong Province, has reported a "performance issue" at the facility on June 14. According to company officials, concentrations of noble gases have increased at some sections of the plant. However, authorities have indicated that the issue does not represent an imminent threat to the public at this time and will likely be resolved in the coming days.

The Taishan Nuclear Power Plant is located approximately 97 km (60 miles) west-southwest of Lantau Island, Hong Kong. As of late June 14, officials in Hong Kong have not reported any usual radiation in the region.

Context

Concerns about operations at the Taishan Nuclear Power Plant increased following recent reports of US officials monitoring the facility for potential hazards. However, as of June 14, US officials reportedly do not believe the situation represents a significant threat to either staff at the facility or the general public in the surrounding area. Reports of the situation are generally consistent with the development of a cracked fuel rod; such incidents tend to be disruptive to operations but are generally resolved without creating major hazards. French companies may have contacted US officials about the situation because the China General Nuclear Power Group, the main owner and operator for the facility, faces US sanctions; such sanctions typically require US officials to grant waivers in order for companies to acquire US technology and components.