Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) has given clearance for the installation of major equipment at the fifth and sixth units of the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Project (KKNPP) in the state of Tamil Nadu, which marks the next phase in the construction of the nuclear plant.

The approval from the regulatory body enables NPCIL to install reactor pressure vessels, steam generators, and coolant pumps at Units 5 and 6.

In a statement, AERB has noted that this decision was made following the safety analysis of reactor systems as well as the civil construction activities being undertaken at the project site. AERB stated that this process was conducted within the current framework of nuclear safety regulations.

The Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant is an ongoing project between NPCIL and the Russian company, Rosatom. It currently houses two operational reactor units, with the other four still under construction at the site.

According to NPCIL, the approval will be helpful in the construction of new reactor units at the project site.

This development occurs against the backdrop of India’s plans to boost nuclear energy production. This source of power occupies a relatively smaller portion of the electricity mix in India, but has been planned by the Indian government for the long term.

Commissioning activities have also progressed at Unit 3 of the project. NPCIL has announced the commencement of the process of “spillage to open reactor,” which involves flushing and conditioning of the reactor coolant system before the commencement of operations.

There have been some delays in the construction phase of the project due to construction issues, administrative processes, and protests from some segments of the local population during earlier stages of the project.

With the completion of all six reactor units, the project will make significant contributions to the Indian electricity grid system.