India has recently witnessed interest from major private companies to set up Small Modular Reactor (SMR) nuclear projects. Reliance Industries, Tata Power, Adani Power, and others have responded to proposals by the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Ltd (NPCIL) to develop Bharat Small Modular Reactors (BSMR). Sixteen sites across six states have been identified for these projects. This marks a key development in India’s clean energy and industrial decarbonisation strategy.
Emergence of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs)
SMRs are compact nuclear reactors with a capacity between 30 and 300 megawatt electric (MWe). They offer a smaller, flexible alternative to traditional large nuclear plants. SMRs generate low-carbon electricity and can be deployed quickly, making them suitable for energy-intensive industries like steel, aluminium, and cement. They also provide a solution to repurpose retiring thermal power plants and support grid stability by complementing renewable energy sources.
Global Status of SMR Technology
Worldwide, SMRs are still in early commercial stages. Russia operates the Akademik Lomonosov floating power unit with two 35 MWe modules since 2020. China’s HTR-PM project began commercial operation in late 2023. Several global companies including Rolls-Royce, NuScale, and Westinghouse are developing SMR designs. Despite their promise, questions remain about the economic viability and regulatory challenges of SMRs.
India’s SMR Ambitions and Strategy
India aims to become a global player in SMR technology as part of its clean energy transition. The government promotes SMRs to provide reliable base load power and support industrial decarbonisation. NPCIL will retain ownership and operational control, while private firms will finance projects and receive electricity for captive use. This public-private partnership model is designed to attract investment and accelerate deployment.
Technology and Reactor Types in India
India’s SMR development is led by the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC). Three reactor prototypes are in advanced design stages – Bharat Small Modular Reactor (BSMR) 200 MWe, Bharat Small Reactor (BSR) 220 MWe, and a smaller 55 MWe SMR. The BSR uses pressurised heavy water reactor (PHWR) technology, while BSMR and SMR-55 are light water reactors (LWRs), aligning with global trends. Demonstration units are planned at Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) sites.
Regulatory and Legislative Reforms
India is preparing legislative amendments to modernise atomic energy laws. These changes aim to address investor concerns and harmonise regulations with international standards. The reforms will facilitate private sector participation and technology imports from countries like the US and Russia. The government has committed to passing these amendments to open India’s civil nuclear sector further.
Benefits and Challenges of SMRs in India
SMRs offer clean, reliable power and help balance renewable energy intermittency. They support industrial growth with assured electricity supply. However, challenges include high capital costs, unproven commercial scalability, and complex regulatory frameworks. India’s approach combines indigenous innovation with international collaboration to overcome these hurdles.
Questions for UPSC:
- Critically analyse the role of Small Modular Reactors in India’s energy transition and industrial decarbonisation efforts.
- Explain the significance of legislative reforms in India’s atomic energy sector and their impact on private sector participation.
- What are the challenges and opportunities in integrating nuclear power with renewable energy sources in India? Illustrate with suitable examples.
- With suitable examples, comment on the global status of Small Modular Reactor technology and its potential influence on India’s nuclear energy strategy.
