One of the world's largest nuclear reactors has begun commercial operation in Finland. This is the first new reactor to start operation in Europe in about 15 years.

The No. 3 reactor at the Olkiluoto nuclear power plant in southwestern Finland started operation on Sunday.

The reactor can generate a maximum power output of 1,600 megawatts, enough to meet 14 percent of the country's electricity demands.

The unit is a new type manufactured by French and other companies.

It is said to be equipped with the latest safety measures, including four independent emergency cooling devices and a core catcher, a device to cool molten nuclear fuel in the event of an accident.

Construction on the reactor began in 2005, but the start of its operation has been delayed by 14 years from the initial target year, due to a series of problems.

European countries are divided over the use of nuclear power. Some nations are willing to use more nuclear power in a bid to address climate change and the energy crisis.

France plans to construct six nuclear reactors, and Britain and Poland also aim to build new plants.

On the other hand, Germany shut down its last nuclear power stations on Saturday, marking the completion of the country's plan to quit nuclear power.