The UK nuclear regulator is one of the strictest in the world, and if Chinese firms successfully pass their design through the UK's generic design assessment, they will be in a good position to export to other countries.

While there are concerns about the safety of Chinese nuclear technology, China actually has the world's largest nuclear plant building program and rich experience, with 21 nuclear power reactors operating at eight separate sites and a further 28 under construction.

One important step for the export of Chinese nuclear technology took place in December, when China National Nuclear Corp's ACP1000 nuclear power reactor passed the International Atomic Energy Agency's Generic Reactor Safety Review.

Receiving this safety review recognition from the IAEA puts ACP1000 on a level playing field with other third-generation nuclear technology globally, and adds to its credibility in the export process.

Based on these, Chinese investment and technology to be used in the British nuclear project is beneficial for both sides.