The total capacity of China's nuclear power units will double by the end of the decade, reaching 58 gigawatts (GW), local media reported Wednesday.

While the world took a step back from nuclear power in the wake of Japan's Fukushima tragedy in 2011, mostly coal-powered China remained committed to developing the technology. The total capacity of the country's nuclear power units is set to double by the end of the decade to 58 gigawatts (GW), local media reported Wednesday.

China's state news agency Xinhua news agency reported the figure, citing a nuclear white paper published by the Chinese government; the estimate reflects the addition of 30 GW in generating capacity.

China, in a move to foster the development of clean, reliable energy sources, has established mid- and long-term goals calling for the enhancement of the country's nuclear energy sector by 2030, according to Xinhua.

As of the end of October 2015, the total capacity of the country's 27 nuclear power units accounted for 25.5 GW. Another 25 units with a total capacity of 27.51 GW are under construction, the news agency reported.

Source: Sputnik News