India is ambitiously planning to build between 40 to 50 small modular reactors (SMRs) by 2032 as part of its ‘Developed India’ initiative, aimed at achieving a decarbonised power network.
- The Department of Atomic Energy and Tata Consulting Engineers are collaborating on this project, leveraging modular and scalable nuclear technology.
- These reactors, termed Bharat SMRs, are designed to accelerate deployment through factory-built components, enhancing speed and cost-efficiency.
- The initiative is part of India’s larger strategy to achieve a significant increase in nuclear capacity by 2032, aligning with national climate goals.
- The plan underscores India’s commitment to nuclear energy as a sustainable solution to meet future energy demands.
India’s initiative to build 40-50 small modular reactors (SMRs) by 2032 marks a significant step towards its goal of becoming a ‘Developed India’ by its centenary of independence in 2047. The project is a collaboration between India’s Department of Atomic Energy and Tata Consulting Engineers, focusing on Bharat SMRs—a reflection of the country’s ambition for a decarbonised power network.
The SMRs are expected to provide a quicker and more cost-effective alternative to traditional large-scale nuclear plants. Designed as modular systems, these reactors will have parts manufactured in factories, allowing for quicker assembly and deployment. This modular approach not only reduces construction time but also enhances safety through standardisation, aligning with post-Fukushima safety standards.
Amit Sharma, CEO of Tata Consulting Engineers, emphasised the scalability and safety features of reconfiguring existing designs of the 220MWe Pressurised Heavy Water Reactor (PHWR) for these SMRs. He stated, “We are going to take the old design of the PHWR and then reconfigure and redesign it to be modular, scalable and safety-aligned to post-Fukushima standards.”
India’s SMR project is not only a response to domestic energy needs but also a crucial part of its commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2070. The Minister of Finance, Nirmala Sitharaman, highlighted nuclear energy’s significant role in the nation’s energy mix, supporting the development and research of these technologies through partnerships with the private sector.
The nation’s nuclear capacity is already on an upward trajectory, with the recent full commission of a 700MW reactor at Kakrapar Atomic Power Station. By 2031-2032, nuclear capacity is projected to increase to 23,480MWe from 45 reactors, tripling from the current 8,180MWe. This expansion aligns with the anticipated online arrival of seven new reactors by 2029 and continued developments thereafter.
India’s commitment to deploying SMRs underscores its strategic focus on nuclear power as a cornerstone for a sustainable and self-reliant energy future.
