India Doubles Nuclear Power Generation in the Last Decade

Syllabus: GS3/Energy

Context

• Recently, the Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology informed the recent Lok Sabha session that India nearly doubled its nuclear power generation capacity from 2014 to in 2024.

About the Nuclear Power Generation in India

• Over the past decade, the country has nearly doubled its nuclear power capacity, growing from 4,780 MW in 2014 to currently operating 24 nuclear reactors with a combined capacity of 8,180 MW in 2024.
• The government has set an ambitious target to triple this capacity to 22,480 MW by 2031-32.
  • This expansion is driven by several key initiatives, including the approval of 10 new reactors, increased funding, and collaborations with Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) and limited private sector participation.
• The above expansion is part of India’s broader goal to achieve a nuclear capacity of 1 lakh MW by 2047, aligning with the country’s commitment to a net-zero transition by 2070.

Key Developments and Initiatives

• Bulk Approval of Reactors: The government approved the construction of 10 new reactors, significantly boosting capacity.
• Increased Funding: Enhanced financial allocations have supported the expansion and modernization of nuclear facilities.
• Collaborations with PSUs: Partnerships with Public Sector Undertakings have facilitated the development and operational efficiency of nuclear plants.
• Private Sector Participation: Limited involvement of private entities has also contributed to the sector’s growth.

Technological Advancements

• India is focusing on indigenous technology development to enhance its nuclear power infrastructure. The Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) is working on the Bharat Small Modular Reactor (BSMR) and the Bharat Small Reactor (BSR), designed for captive nuclear power generation.
• Additionally, the Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR) is expected to achieve criticality soon, marking a significant step in India’s nuclear technology capabilities.
• Harnessing Thorium Reserves: India’s abundant thorium reserves, constituting 21% of the global total, present a significant opportunity.
  • Indigenous projects like ‘Bhavani’ are being developed to harness this resource, reducing dependence on imported uranium and other materials.

Applications Beyond Power Generation

• Agriculture: Development of 70 mutagenic crop varieties to enhance agricultural productivity.
• Healthcare: Introduction of advanced isotopes for cancer treatment.
• Defense: Use of atomic energy processes to develop cost-effective, lightweight bulletproof jackets.

Challenges and Way Ahead

• Despite the progress, India faces challenges in implementing nuclear power projects, such as land acquisition, forest clearances, and equipment procurement.
• The government is committed to addressing these issues through streamlined administrative processes and increased collaboration with various stakeholders.
• With a clear roadmap and strategic initiatives, India is poised to become a global leader in nuclear energy, contributing significantly to its energy mix and supporting its long-term environmental goals.

Source: PIB