India plans to boost its nuclear power capacity significantly, aiming to increase it from the current 8.8 gigawatts to 100 gigawatts by 2047. Ghanshyam Prasad, Chairperson of the Central Electricity Authority, revealed this long-term energy transition strategy during a session on India’s nuclear roadmap. The expansion initiative will demand a sustained and rapid development pace, with a detailed roadmap already in place to achieve the ambitious 100 GW target.
Legislative reforms are a crucial component of the plan, with the enactment of the Shanti Act representing a significant milestone that has been accomplished. However, there is still substantial work ahead in formulating rules, procedures, and guidelines to operationalize the framework. Efforts are currently ongoing to incorporate stakeholder feedback and ensure a smoother implementation process.
Prasad emphasized the importance of accelerating financial flows and policy execution, along with streamlining processes to enhance the cost-effectiveness of nuclear energy. Addressing various aspects such as fuel security, site selection, and the development of skilled human resources will be essential to support the expansion. He also hinted at the potential for increased participation in the sector in the future, with the possibility of 10 to 12 companies entering the nuclear power generation space.
Highlighting the reliability and stability of nuclear energy, Prasad described it as a dependable source of baseload power capable of continuous operation for extended periods. He also stressed the safety and stability of nuclear power generation when managed effectively. Additionally, he mentioned the emergence of technologies like Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) as both an opportunity and a challenge, noting their global development stage and potential role in cleaner energy solutions.
