India’s Nuclear Energy Strategy: Future Prospects and Achievements

Why is India Emphasizing Nuclear Energy?

India is prioritizing nuclear energy in its recent budget and policy decisions to ensure energy security while significantly reducing carbon emissions and dependence on fossil fuels. With a growing population and increased energy demands, nuclear power presents a reliable, low-carbon alternative. The latest Union Budget has opened the nuclear sector to private participation, indicating a strategic shift towards a more inclusive and accelerated approach.

Key Components of India’s Nuclear Energy Programme

India's nuclear energy programme is structured around a three-stage plan proposed by Dr. Homi Bhabha:

• Stage 1: Utilization of natural uranium in Pressurized Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs) to produce plutonium.
• Stage 2: Implementation of Fast Breeder Reactors (FBRs) that utilize plutonium to generate more fissile material.
• Stage 3: Exploitation of thorium reserves to ensure long-term sustainability.

This roadmap aims to achieve energy self-sufficiency by capitalizing on India’s extensive thorium resources.

Recent Milestones in Nuclear Energy

• Commissioning of India's first indigenous 700 MWe PHWR at Kakrapar, Gujarat in 2023-24.
• Development of the Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR).
• Advancements in the Fast Breeder Test Reactor (FBTR) and Compact High-Temperature Reactor.
• Enhancement of fuel reprocessing and recycling capabilities.

These milestones signify India’s increasing self-reliance and technological progress in atomic energy.

The Role of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs)

Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) and Bharat Small Reactors (BSRs) are compact, scalable solutions that provide flexibility and can be deployed in remote or smaller grid locations.

• India has allocated ₹20,000 crore for SMR research and development.
• Plans include installing at least five indigenous SMRs and 220 MWe PHWRs by 2033.
• These initiatives are crucial for efficiently meeting local energy needs and industrial requirements.

Current Nuclear Power Capacity and Future Targets

As of 2023-24, India’s nuclear power capacity stands at 7,480 MW, expected to rise to 8,180 MW with ongoing construction. The ambitious target is to generate 100 GW of nuclear power by 2047, increasing the nuclear share in the energy mix from 3% to approximately 9%.

Fuel Security for Nuclear Reactors

India is enhancing fuel security for its nuclear reactors by bolstering uranium procurement and establishing agreements with several countries, notably Russia and France. A significant agreement with the US is underway for supplying nuclear fuel to the 1208 MW plant at Kovvada, Andhra Pradesh. These collaborations ensure a reliable fuel supply and long-term sustainability.

Institutional and Legal Reforms

• Formation of joint ventures like ASHWINI between NPCIL and NTPC to enhance private participation.
• Proposed amendments to the Atomic Energy Act and regulations concerning Nuclear Damage are currently under review.
• Efforts are focused on public engagement and safety awareness to foster trust and acceptance.

Balancing Nuclear Safety with Expansion

The Department of Atomic Energy has implemented rigorous safety protocols. The permissible radiation levels in Indian facilities remain far below global standards, and radioactive discharge limits are strictly monitored. Continuous monitoring of emissions and public health impacts ensures safety.

Environmental Benefits of Nuclear Energy

Nuclear power generates minimal greenhouse gas emissions compared to fossil fuels. By replacing coal and oil-based energy generation, nuclear energy contributes to cleaner air, a reduced carbon footprint, and assists in meeting climate commitments without compromising energy availability.

Impact of Private Participation in Nuclear Energy

The inclusion of private players is anticipated to enhance innovation, expedite project implementation, and attract additional investments. This move also fosters competition and technology transfer, facilitating the scaling of projects like SMRs and accelerating overall capacity growth in a shorter timeframe.