Meeting Demand: India's 100 GW Nuclear Power Vision

India will pursue an enormous enlargement of nuclear power generation capacity, targeting 100 gigawatts (GW) by 2047. The project is as part of the nation's long-term plan to satisfy increasing electricity demand and be net-zero by 2070. Union Minister Jitendra Singh, during a post-budget webinar organized by NITI Aayog, emphasized the importance of nuclear energy in achieving energy security and economic progress. With an estimated growth in power needs four to five times by 2047, the government is set to concentrate on a diversified energy mix in which nuclear power plays a central role of providing stable and reliable electricity.

Targeting Rapid Nuclear Growth:-
With an attempt to achieve the ambitious 100 GW target, India will have to commission almost 4 GW of nuclear power annually. India currently has 22 reactors of approximately 7 GW capacity, and new projects are planned. The expansion plan points towards the limitation of renewable sources of energy to fulfill base-load requirement, wherein nuclear energy is the clean and reliable source of energy.

One of the most important elements of the plan is the speed-up of construction of new nuclear reactors, including large-capacity PHWRs and advanced types like SMRs. Indigenous capacity is being enhanced by the government while seeking international partnerships for development of further nuclear infrastructure.

Opening Nuclear Sector to Private Investment:-
In a dramatic policy change, India intends to open the nuclear power sector to private players. The step will involve amendments in the important legislations such as the Atomic Energy Act, the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act, and the Electricity Act, to provide for private companies to design, construct, and run nuclear power plants.

Encouraging private investment is likely to induce innovation, enhance efficiency, and accelerate project implementation. The Nuclear Power Corporation of India Ltd. (NPCIL) and its subsidiaries will play a major role in the 100 GW target, working in collaboration with private firms and foreign partners.

The project has already announced that four 700 MW pressurized heavy water reactors will be built at Mahi-Banswara by a NTPC joint venture. The government has already demonstrated through the project that it will proceed with mainstreaming nuclear power in the energy transition agenda.

Enabling Small Modular Reactors for Broader Use:-
Apart from big nuclear power plants, India is focusing on Small Modular Reactor (SMR) deployment under its nuclear plan. A unique research and development task has been initiated by the government for commissioning five SMRs by 2033. The reactors are flexible and modifiable, capable of being deployed in industrial complexes and rural areas.

SMRs have the potential to decarbonize hard-to-abate sectors such as steel and cement production using low-carbon energy sources. Their small size and modularity allow for faster construction and reduced capital costs compared to traditional nuclear reactors.

Overcoming Public Perception and Global Positioning:-
Despite all the advantages of nuclear power, safety and environmental concerns have loomed large through the years. The government makes a suggestion towards a massive public campaign to sensitize the populace on the issue of safety, reliability, as well as the environmental advantages of nuclear power.

Indian nuclear policy has come a long way from its inception with Dr. Homi Bhabha. Regardless of previous international constraints, the nation has always ramped up its nuclear capability. Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, nuclear power is now framed as an essential clean energy source, and no geopolitical considerations are attached to the 100 GW goal.

The growth is in line with India's overall energy transition strategy, with nuclear energy supplementing the nation's increasing renewable energy base. The government is also collaborating with stakeholders to finalize a comprehensive nuclear sector roadmap with a balance between ambitious targets and realistic implementation plans.

Conclusion
India's vision to increase nuclear power capacity to 100 GW by 2047 is a significant step towards energy security and decarbonization. The effort is to meet growing electricity needs, decrease fossil fuel dependence, and make nuclear energy a cornerstone of the nation's transition towards clean energy. With policy reform to allow for private sector investment, investment in the next-generation reactor technology, and public campaigns, the dream of nuclear energy growth is bold but within reach. The government continues to remain focused on overcoming obstacles and embracing a safe, secure, and sustainable nuclear energy future.

Source: Government of India, NITI Aayog