The Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) is pioneering the development of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) in India. This initiative aims to repurpose retiring thermal power plants and enhance energy production for remote and off-grid locations. The Government of India has set ambitious targets to decarbonise the energy sector, with SMRs playing important role in this transition.
Overview of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs)
SMRs are compact, factory-fabricated nuclear reactors. They offer a safer and more efficient alternative to traditional nuclear reactors. With a capacity of 55 Megawatts thermal (MWth), they can provide reliable energy while reducing carbon emissions. Their design allows for easier integration into existing energy infrastructures.
Repurposing Thermal Power Plants
The Government of India plans to utilise SMRs to repurpose retiring thermal power plants (TPPs) and captive power plants (CPPs). This strategy will not only extend the life of existing facilities but also transform them into cleaner energy sources. Industries such as aluminium and steel will particularly benefit from this transition.
High Temperature Gas Cooled Reactor
A notable innovation is the High Temperature Gas Cooled Reactor, which has a capacity of 5 MWth. This reactor will focus on hydrogen generation, supporting decarbonisation in the transport sector and various process industries. Hydrogen is a clean fuel that can reduce carbon footprints.
Safety Standards and Regulatory Framework
Safety is paramount in nuclear energy. The Government of India has established committees comprising members from the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE), the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB), and other ministries. These committees will propose amendments to existing laws to facilitate private sector participation in the nuclear field. They will also address crucial aspects like waste management and fuel handling.
Future Goals and Budget Allocation
The Indian nuclear energy mission aims to deploy 100 Gigawatts electric (GWe) of nuclear energy by 2047. A budget of ₹20,000 crore has been allocated for the deployment of five SMRs by 2033. As of March 2025, India operates 25 nuclear reactors with a total capacity of 8,880 megawatts (MW). Ongoing projects will increase this capacity to 22,480 MW by 2031-32.
Significance of SMRs in Energy Transition
SMRs are integral to India’s strategy for achieving energy security and sustainability. By modernising the energy sector, they contribute to the global agenda of reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Their deployment will support economic growth while ensuring environmental protection.
Challenges Ahead
Despite the promising outlook, several challenges remain. The timeline for implementing new safety regulations is uncertain. Inter-ministerial consultations and scientific evaluations will require time. Additionally, public perception of nuclear energy needs to be addressed to ensure widespread acceptance.
Questions for UPSC:
- Critically analyse the role of Small Modular Reactors in India’s energy transition strategy.
- Estimate the impact of hydrogen generation technology on decarbonisation in transport and industry sectors.
- What are the safety measures proposed for the nuclear sector in India? Discuss their significance.
- Point out the challenges in implementing nuclear energy regulations in India. How can they be addressed?
Answer Hints:
1. Critically analyse the role of Small Modular Reactors in India’s energy transition strategy.
- SMRs provide a compact and efficient alternative to traditional nuclear reactors, enhancing energy production.
- They are designed to repurpose retiring thermal power plants, extending their operational life and reducing carbon emissions.
- SMRs support energy needs in remote and off-grid locations, promoting energy accessibility and security.
- They align with India’s decarbonisation goals, contributing to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.
- SMRs can facilitate industrial growth by supplying clean energy to energy-intensive sectors like aluminium and steel.
2. Estimate the impact of hydrogen generation technology on decarbonisation in transport and industry sectors.
- Hydrogen generation from High Temperature Gas Cooled Reactors provides a clean fuel alternative, reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
- It supports decarbonisation in transport by enabling zero-emission vehicles powered by hydrogen fuel cells.
- In industries, hydrogen can replace carbon-intensive processes, particularly in steel and chemical manufacturing.
- Utilising hydrogen enhances energy efficiency and reduces overall carbon footprints in various sectors.
- Investment in hydrogen technology encourages innovation and positions India as a leader in clean energy solutions.
3. What are the safety measures proposed for the nuclear sector in India? Discuss their significance.
- Committees have been formed to assess and propose amendments to existing nuclear laws, ensuring robust regulatory frameworks.
- Safety standards will cover waste management, fuel handling, and decommissioning processes to mitigate risks.
- Involvement of multiple stakeholders (DAE, AERB, etc.) ensures comprehensive safety oversight and accountability.
- Strengthening safety measures is crucial to gaining public trust and acceptance of nuclear energy initiatives.
- These measures will facilitate private sector participation, encouraging innovation and investment in the nuclear energy sector.
4. Point out the challenges in implementing nuclear energy regulations in India. How can they be addressed?
- Uncertain timelines for regulatory amendments hinder progress in the nuclear sector.
- Inter-ministerial consultations can be time-consuming, delaying the implementation of safety measures.
- Public perception and concerns regarding nuclear safety pose challenges to acceptance and support.
- Addressing these challenges requires transparent communication and public engagement initiatives to build trust.
- Streamlining regulatory processes and enhancing collaboration among stakeholders can expedite implementation and encourage innovation.
