India Aims for 100 GW Nuclear Capacity by 2047 to Fuel Clean, Secure Future

The government of India has announced a ambitious plan to increase the nation's nuclear power capacity to 100 gigawatts (GW) by 2047, as part of the 'Viksit Bharat' vision and the country's goal of net zero carbon emissions by 2070. Union Power Minister Manohar Lal Khattar made the announcement while addressing the Consultative Committee of the Ministry of Power, emphasizing the key role of nuclear energy in ensuring India's long-term energy security and clean energy transition.

 

India now has 25 nuclear power reactors in service at seven sites with a cumulative capacity of 8,880 MW-just 3% of the country's electricity supply. Another eight reactors (6,600 MW) are planned, and an additional 10 (7,000 MW) are in early project stages. Reaching 100 GW of capacity will entail ten times capacity growth, leveraging indigenous technology along with foreign partners.

 

The key measures are to modify the Atomic Energy Act and Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act to facilitate higher private and state sector contribution, accelerating land acquisition and regulatory clearances, enhancing indigenous manufacturing, and availing uranium supplies. The government would also introduce a Small Modular Reactor (SMR) R&D mission and enhance public awareness regarding nuclear safety.

 

This ambitious plan is likely to revolutionize India's energy sector, catalyze economic growth, and place the nation at the forefront as a global leader in sustainable, non-fossil power production.

 

Sources: The Hans India, Business Standard, World Nuclear News, Economic Times, SolarQuarter