China Punches Pause Button for Nuclear Power

Japan's earthquake-related nuclear catastrophe chilled, yet by no means froze, China's fast-advancing nuclear energy industry by forcing a closer look at the nation's reactors and safety issues.

Five days after the deadly quake March 11, an executive meeting of the State Council chaired by Premier Wen Jiabao ended with an order for a full review of all nuclear power plants currently under construction. Moreover, the council declared, any reviewed project found lax in safety standards would be halted.