The Indian government recently approved an in-principle plan to establish six nuclear power reactors at Jaitapur in Maharashtra. This project, which is a central component of the strategic partnership between India and France, signifies a considerable step towards harnessing clean, eco-friendly power that could significantly bolster the country’s long-term energy security.
Nuclear Power: An Overview
Nuclear power is seen as both clean and environment-friendly, with immense potential for ensuring sustainable long-term energy security for the country. To date, nuclear power plants have generated approximately 755 billion units of electricity, effectively preventing about 650 million tonnes of CO2 emissions.
Net Zero Targets and Nuclear Power
Net zero targets are likely to be achieved by incorporating various clean energy sources, among which are nuclear power. The present nuclear power capacity of 6,780 MW is anticipated to surge to 22,480 MW by 2031, upon the completion of ongoing projects.
Jaitapur Project Key Points
Once functional, Jaitapur will become the world’s most potent nuclear power plant. The project plans to set up six state-of-the-art Evolutionary Power Reactors boasting an installed capacity of 9.6 GWe, generating low carbon electricity. Each reactor, equipped with a 1,650 MW capacity, will be established with technical cooperation from France. With the capability to provide electricity to approximately 70 million households, this initiative will undoubtedly have a substantial impact. However, it is also a complex project that requires concerted effort from both nations involved.
India’s Nuclear Energy Landscape
India has been consciously exploring the possibility of tapping into nuclear energy for power generation. A three-stage nuclear power program was drafted by Homi Bhabha in the 1950s to further this cause. The Atomic Energy Act, 1962 accentuated the plan with the intent to use Uranium and Thorium, two naturally occurring elements with significant nuclear fuel potential, in Indian Nuclear Power Reactors.
Additional Measures to Increase Nuclear Power Generation
To enhance the output from nuclear power plants, administrative approval and financial sanction for 10 indigenous 700 MW Pressurised Heavy Water Reactors (PHWR) have been given. PHWR is a type of nuclear power reactor that uses unenriched natural uranium as its fuel, and heavy water as its coolant and moderator.
Current Status of Nuclear Power Plants in India
India currently operates 22 nuclear power reactors with an installed capacity of 6780 MWe. Eighteen of these reactors are Pressurised Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs), while four are Light Water Reactors (LWRs). The Atomic Energy Act 1962 has been amended to allow public sector joint ventures to establish nuclear power projects.
Overview of India’s Nuclear Power Plant Locations
Indian nuclear power plants are located in various states. These include operational plants at Rawatbhata in Rajasthan, Tarapur in Maharashtra, and Kakrapar in Gujarat among others. There are also plants under construction at various locations including Kakrapar 3&4 in Gujarat and Kudankulam 3&4 in Tamil Nadu. In the future, new plants are planned at sites such as Jaitapur in Maharashtra, Kovvada in Andhra Pradesh, and Mithi Virdi in Gujarat.
Last Modified: February 14, 2024