Presently, India operates 25 nuclear reactors across seven sites, with a total installed capacity of 8.8 GW.
Key Highlights of the Report
- Capacity Expansion: Large PHWRs need to anchor base-load power, while Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) will target hard to abate sectors like steel & cement.
- SMRs are miniaturised versions of large nuclear power plants, generating up to 300 MWe per module and offering advantages such as –
- Modularity through factory-made parts for faster assembly and lower costs,
- Scalability via incremental deployment based on energy demand, and
- Enhanced safety through passive systems enabling automatic shutdown without human intervention.
- SMRs are miniaturised versions of large nuclear power plants, generating up to 300 MWe per module and offering advantages such as –
- Massive Investment Mobilization: Scaling the capacity will require an estimated capital outlay of ₹23–25 lakh crore.
- Workforce Expansion: The construction phase alone will demand 1.2–2 lakh personnel, requiring a massive push in specialized skills training.
Challenges before India
- Regulatory framework remains outdated for SMR deployment and private participation.
- SHANTI Act (2025) lacks clear operational rules, ownership models, and financing clarity.
- High capital costs (₹20–25 Cr/MW), fuel import dependence, and waste management issues.
- Shortage of specialized skilled manpower and public acceptance hurdles.
Recommendations
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