India's Ambitious Nuclear Power Plan
India is planning a significant expansion of its nuclear power capacity, aiming to achieve 100 GW by 2047. This expansion may include up to 5 GW of fast breeder reactors (FBRs).
Fast Breeder Reactors (FBRs)
- Signify India's entry into the second stage of its nuclear energy program.
- Only Russia currently has commercially operating FBRs.
- These reactors are crucial for India's third stage nuclear program.
Current Developments
- India's first 500 MW prototype fast breeder reactor (PFBR) is under development by Bharatiya Nabhikiya Vidyut Nigam Ltd (BHAVINI).
- 'Core loading' of nuclear fuel assemblies at the PFBR in Kalpakkam, Tamil Nadu, began in March last year.
- The PFBR is expected to be commissioned in the current financial year.
Future Plans
- Post-commissioning, BHAVINI could expand FBR capacity in 'fleet mode' — building multiple reactors of a similar design simultaneously.
- The framework for achieving 100 GW is being prepared by an inter-ministerial committee.
- This framework will include technology pathways, investment needs, manpower requirements, and supply chain logistics.
Current Nuclear Power Status
- India has developed and operated indigenous Pressurised Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs) through the Nuclear Power Corporation of India.
- Light Water Reactors have been added, mainly through foreign collaborations.
- India currently has 8.8 GW of nuclear energy capacity, constituting about 1.9% of the total installed power generation capacity.
Significance of FBRs
- The FBR is a pivotal step toward the third stage of India's nuclear program.
- The PFBR will utilize plutonium as fuel and generate power by recycling plutonium and depleted uranium from spent PHWR fuel.