India has set an ambitious goal to expand its nuclear power capacity to 100 gigawatts (GW) by 2047, a significant increase from the current 8 GW. This initiative aims to enhance energy security, reduce reliance on fossil fuels, and contribute to the nation’s net-zero carbon emissions target by 2070.
Key Strategies and Developments:
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Policy Reforms: The government plans to amend the Atomic Energy Act of 1962 and the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act of 2010. These changes are intended to encourage private and foreign investments in the nuclear sector by addressing stringent liability provisions that have previously deterred participation.
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Nuclear Energy Mission: Announced in the Union Budget 2025-26, this mission allocates ₹20,000 crore (approximately $2.31 billion) for the development of nuclear energy infrastructure. A significant focus is on research and development of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), with plans to operationalize at least five indigenous SMRs by 2033.
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NTPC’s Expansion Plans: India’s leading power producer, NTPC, has outlined a strategy to add 30 GW of nuclear capacity over the next two decades, requiring an estimated investment of $62 billion. NTPC is in discussions with international partners, including U.S.-based Holtec International Corp, to collaborate on SMR projects.
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State-Level Initiatives: The central government is encouraging states, especially those without coal resources, to consider establishing nuclear power plants. This move aims to replace aging coal-based thermal plants and diversify the energy mix with non-carbon-emitting sources.
Achieving the 100 GW target by 2047 will require overcoming challenges such as securing investments, ensuring public acceptance, and building the necessary infrastructure. However, with these strategic initiatives and policy reforms, India is positioning itself to make nuclear energy a cornerstone of its sustainable and secure energy future.
Image source- NPCIL
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