India's Energy Aspirations and Nuclear Strategy
India aims to achieve the status of "viksit" (developed) by its centenary year of independence, aligned with a net-zero carbon emissions target by 2070. This requires a robust strategy for sustained per capita energy use and achieving a Human Development Index of 0.95, which necessitates around 28,000 TWh of clean energy annually.
Clean Energy Sources
- Renewable energy, large hydropower, and nuclear are the primary clean energy sources.
- Nuclear energy must contribute at least 20,000 TWh annually due to limitations of other sources.
Nuclear Energy Focus
- Currently, India consumes about 9,800 TWh annually, predominantly from fossil resources.
- The focus is on increasing clean energy by 70 times, with 70% from nuclear sources in 45 years.
Three-Stage Nuclear Power Programme
- Initiated by Homi Bhabha for long-term energy security and autonomy.
- Emphasis on domestic pressurized heavy water reactors (PHWRs) as proven technology.
- Need for accelerated deployment and introduction of multiple deployment agencies.
Uranium and Energy Security
- Uranium is the only natural source of fissionable material.
- India's uranium resources are modest, with low ore grades but crucial for energy security.
- The 100 GWe nuclear mission requires 20,000 tons of uranium annually, posing potential geopolitical challenges.
Thorium and Fast Breeder Reactors (FBRs)
- India has large thorium reserves; shift towards recycled uranium and plutonium is essential.
- Delays in FBR deployment make thorium irradiation in PHWRs crucial.
- Thorium-based spent fuel recycling in molten salt reactors (MSRs) is vital for energy security.
Advanced Nuclear Technologies
- Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) are projected to take decades to mature.
- Research should focus on thorium MSR-based SMRs and advancing the second and third stages of nuclear development.
International Cooperation and Future Prospects
- High Assay Low Enriched Uranium (HALEU) is essential for introducing thorium in PHWRs.
- International collaboration on HALEU and ANEEL fuel development could benefit India and other emerging economies.
- The 100 GWe nuclear mission should lead to broader deployment necessary for a net-zero Viksit Bharat.
