Why in News: India plans to boost nuclear power capacity to 100 GW by 2047, signaling a major shift to meet energy and climate goals, backed by new budget allocations and needed reforms
New Nuclear Vision: Budget 2025-26
- Target: 100 GW nuclear power capacity by 2047 (current: 8.18 GW).
- Purpose: Support goals of Viksit Bharat by 2047 and Net Zero by 2070.
- Key Allocation: ₹20,000 crore for developing 5 indigenous Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) by 2033.
India’s Nuclear Journey: A Recap
- Early Lead: Asia’s first research reactor Apsara (1956); Tarapore reactors (1963).
- Setbacks: Post-1974 nuclear test, India faced global isolation, halting imports and cooperation.
- Indigenisation: Developed PHWRs using natural uranium; gradually scaled from 220 MW to 700 MW reactors.
- Breakthrough: Post-1998, international acceptance led to NSG waiver and resumed imports.
- Current Status: Russia remains the only active foreign partner due to pre-CLNDA agreements.
Role of Nuclear Energy in India’s Energy Transition and Economic Growth
1. Reducing Fossil Fuel Dependency & Net-Zero Goals
- Nuclear power aims to grow from 8,180 MW to 100,000 MW by 2047, supporting India’s net-zero target by 2070.
2. Energy Security & Stable Supply
- Provides reliable 24/7 power, stabilizing the grid amid 6-8% annual demand growth.
- Plans to add 18 reactors by 2031-32.
3. Industrial Decarbonization & Economic Growth
- Enables low-carbon power for heavy industries via Small Modular Reactors (SMRs).
- ₹20,000 crore allocated for SMR development by 2033 with private sector participation.
4. Technological Innovation & R&D
- Advances in Fast Breeder Reactors reduce uranium reliance; PFBR achieved core loading in 2024.
5. International Partnerships & Energy Diplomacy
- US-India nuclear deal opened uranium markets; ongoing collaboration with France on advanced reactors.
6. Job Creation & Skill Development
- Nuclear industry offers more jobs and higher wages than other renewables, boosting India’s skilled workforce.
7. Decentralized Power for Remote Areas
- SMRs’ modular design suits off-grid deployment, supporting sustainable local energy economies.
Energy Imperatives
- Rising Demand: India needs to grow electricity generation 5x to meet future demands.
- Current Reliance: Coal still produces 75% of total energy despite renewable push.
- Intermittency Challenge: Solar, wind, hydro can’t provide consistent base-load power.
- Nuclear’s Role: Only scalable low-carbon option to meet growth + climate targets.
- Global Shift: COP28 Declaration to Triple Nuclear; IAEA-World Bank partnership for nuclear in developing nations.
Key Issues in India’s Nuclear Power Sector
1. Slow Project Implementation
- Major delays, e.g., PFBR took 20 years to reach core loading, risking 2047 targets.
2. Uranium Supply Constraints
- Limited domestic uranium (1-2% global share), dependence on imports with geopolitical risks.
- Compliance with IAEA safeguards adds complexity.
3. Technological Bottlenecks in Thorium Use
- Slow progress in Fast Breeder Reactors and Accelerator-Driven Subcritical Systems delays thorium transition.
4. Financial and Investment Challenges
- High capital costs (~₹117 million/MW), insufficient investment despite ₹20,000 crore SMR allocation.
- Cost overruns and funding gaps persist.
5. Safety and Public Perception
- Public fears persist despite low radiation levels and robust safety protocols, affecting support and land acquisition.
6. Environmental and Waste Management
- Lack of centralized waste repositories; temporary on-site storage only.
- Long-term spent fuel management unresolved.
7. Legislative & Regulatory Issues
Atomic Energy Act, 1962:
- Currently allows only government (NPCIL) ownership.
- Needs amendment to allow private and foreign investment.
CLNDA, 2010:
- Supplier liability clause deters foreign companies.
- Requires change to attract global vendors.
Tariff and Dispute Mechanism:
- Confusion over whether disputes fall under Atomic Energy Act or Electricity Act.
- Needs clarity especially for private operators.
8. Safety & Regulatory Framework
- AERB Lacks Independence: Subordinate to Department of Atomic Energy.
Measures to Enhance India’s Nuclear Energy Sector:
1. Fast-Track Project Approvals and Implementation
- Establish a single-window clearance system to reduce delays.
- Promote public-private partnerships (PPP) by amending the Atomic Energy Act to attract private investment and speed reactor deployment.
2. Enhance Indigenous Technology and R&D
- Increase investment in Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) and Fast Breeder Reactors (FBRs).
- Focus on R&D to overcome technological bottlenecks and ensure self-reliance.
3. Strengthen Uranium Exploration and Supply Chains
- Expand domestic uranium mining, leveraging discoveries like Jaduguda Mines.
- Deepen international partnerships (US, Russia, France) for supply security and technology sharing.
4. Focus on Skilled Workforce and Capacity Building
- Expand nuclear education and training programs.
- Collaborate with global institutions and establish dedicated nuclear universities.
5. Optimize Nuclear Waste Management
- Develop a centralized nuclear waste management facility.
- Invest in advanced reprocessing and recycling technologies to enhance sustainability and public trust.
6. Safety & Regulatory Reform:
- Set up a legally independent and empowered nuclear regulator.
7. Financial and Market Reforms
- Classify nuclear as “green energy” for tax and finance benefits.
- Allow up to 49% FDI for Indian ownership control.
- Enable Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) and Viability Gap Funding (VGF).
- Revise tariff setting to align with other energy sources.
Upsc Relevance
GS Paper III (Science & Technology & Energy):
- Nuclear Energy Security: Role of nuclear power in meeting climate goals and reducing dependence on fossil fuels.
- Technology Development: Indigenous nuclear tech, PHWRs, and upcoming fast breeder reactors.
Mains Practice Question
Q. “India’s civil nuclear programme has the potential to play a pivotal role in its energy security and climate goals, but faces strategic and operational roadblocks.” Critically examine. (250 words)