Civil Nuclear Energy: A Pillar of India’s Energy Future

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has emphasized the critical role of civil nuclear energy in driving India’s development, underscoring its potential to transform the nation’s energy landscape. The Union Budget 2025-26 reflects this vision, laying out a comprehensive framework to harness nuclear energy as a cornerstone of India’s energy transition strategy. With an ambitious target of achieving 100 GW of nuclear power capacity by 2047, the government is taking decisive steps to integrate nuclear energy into its broader objectives of energy security, sustainability, and economic growth under the vision of Viksit Bharat.

Introduction: Nuclear Energy in India’s Energy Transition

India’s energy demands are growing rapidly, driven by industrialization, urbanization, and a burgeoning population. To meet these demands while adhering to international climate commitments, the government has recognized nuclear energy as a vital component of its energy mix. The Union Budget 2025-26 has introduced the Nuclear Energy Mission for Viksit Bharat, which focuses on enhancing domestic nuclear capabilities, fostering private sector participation, and advancing cutting-edge technologies such as Small Modular Reactors (SMRs). These initiatives aim to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and ensure reliable, low-carbon energy for future generations.

Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) and R&D: A Game-Changer

A centerpiece of the Nuclear Energy Mission is the development and deployment of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), which represent a transformative step in nuclear technology. The government has allocated ₹20,000 crore for research and development (R&D) in this area, with a target to operationalize at least five indigenously designed SMRs by 2033.

SMRs are advanced reactors with capacities ranging from less than 30 MWe to over 300 MWe. Their modular design allows for factory-based manufacturing, reducing construction timelines and costs. These reactors are particularly suited for deployment in remote areas and as replacements for retiring coal-based power plants. By integrating SMRs into its energy mix, India can address land constraints, stabilize its grid alongside renewable sources, and significantly reduce carbon emissions.

India’s expertise in Pressurized Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs) provides a strong foundation for developing indigenous SMR designs. These reactors not only enhance energy security but also align with India’s commitments under the Paris Agreement to achieve net-zero emissions by 2070.

Bharat Small Reactors: Decarbonizing Industries

In addition to SMRs, the government is focusing on Bharat Small Reactors (BSRs), which are 220 MW PHWRs with proven safety and performance records. These reactors are being upgraded to minimize land requirements, making them ideal for deployment near industries such as steel and aluminum plants. Serving as captive power sources, BSRs can play a critical role in decarbonizing these energy-intensive sectors.

The BSR initiative involves public-private partnerships where private entities provide land, cooling water, and capital investment, while the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL) oversees design, quality assurance, and operations. This model ensures compliance with existing legal frameworks while leveraging private sector efficiencies. BSRs also contribute to India’s broader renewable energy goals, including achieving 500 GW of non-fossil fuel-based capacity by 2030.

Legislative Reforms: Enabling Private Sector Participation

To facilitate private sector involvement in nuclear power projects, the government is proposing amendments to key legislations such as the Atomic Energy Act and the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act. These changes aim to create a more conducive environment for investment and innovation in the nuclear sector. By addressing legal and regulatory barriers, these reforms will accelerate the implementation of the Nuclear Energy Mission and help achieve the target of 100 GW nuclear capacity by 2047.

Expanding Nuclear Capacity: A National Priority

India’s current nuclear power capacity stands at 8,180 MW as of January 2025. However, significant expansion plans are underway:

• The government aims to increase capacity to 22,480 MW by 2031-32 through the construction of ten new reactors across states like Gujarat, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Haryana, Karnataka, and Madhya Pradesh.
• Pre-project activities for an additional ten reactors have commenced.
• In-principle approval has been granted for a 6 x 1208 MW nuclear power plant in collaboration with the USA at Kovvada in Andhra Pradesh.

A notable milestone was achieved on September 19, 2024, when Unit-7 of the Rajasthan Atomic Power Project (RAPP-7) reached criticality. This marks a significant step forward in India’s capability to build and operate indigenous reactors.

Safety: A Cornerstone of India’s Nuclear Policy

Safety remains paramount in India’s nuclear energy program. The country’s nuclear power plants operate under stringent safety protocols that adhere to international standards. Radiation levels at Indian facilities consistently remain well below global benchmarks. These measures underscore India’s commitment to secure and sustainable nuclear energy development.

Recent Developments: Strengthening Indigenous Capabilities

Several recent advancements highlight India’s progress in civil nuclear energy:

1. Discovery at Jaduguda Mines: New uranium deposits have been identified around India’s oldest uranium mine in Jaduguda. This discovery extends the mine’s life by over fifty years.
2. Operationalization of Kakrapar Units: The first two units of the indigenous 700 MWe PHWR at Kakrapar (KAPS-3 & KAPS-4) began commercial operations in FY 2023-24.
3. Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR): India achieved significant milestones in its first PFBR project in 2024, including sodium filling and reactor core loading.
4. ASHVINI Joint Venture: NPCIL and NTPC have formed ASHVINI—a joint venture to develop nuclear power facilities within India’s legal framework.

These developments reflect India’s growing capability to harness indigenous resources and technologies for its nuclear program.

Basics of Nuclear Energy Generation

Nuclear energy is a powerful and efficient source of electricity generation, derived from the core of atoms. It plays a pivotal role in meeting global energy demands while reducing carbon emissions. 

1. Fundamentals of Nuclear Energy

• Definition: Nuclear energy is the energy stored in the nucleus of an atom. It is released through two processes:
  • Nuclear Fission: Splitting of heavy atomic nuclei (e.g., Uranium-235) into smaller nuclei, releasing a large amount of heat and radiation.
  • Nuclear Fusion: Combining lighter nuclei (e.g., hydrogen isotopes) to form a heavier nucleus, releasing energy. Fusion powers the sun but remains commercially unviable due to technological challenges.
• Nuclear Chain Reaction: In fission, released neutrons collide with other uranium atoms, creating a self-sustaining chain reaction controlled in reactors to produce heat.

2. Key Components of a Nuclear Power Plant

A nuclear power plant converts nuclear energy into electricity through several critical components:

• Reactor Core: Contains nuclear fuel (e.g., enriched uranium oxide) where fission occurs, generating heat.
• Control Rods: Made of neutron-absorbing materials like boron or cadmium to regulate the rate of fission.
• Coolant: Transfers heat from the reactor core to turbines. Common coolants include water, heavy water, or gas.
• Moderator: Slows down fast neutrons to sustain the chain reaction. Water or graphite is commonly used as a moderator.
• Steam Generator: Converts coolant-heated water into steam for driving turbines.
• Turbine and Generator: The turbine converts steam energy into mechanical energy, which is then transformed into electricity by the generator.
• Cooling System: Dissipates excess heat through cooling towers or water bodies.

3. Nuclear Fuel and Enrichment

• Uranium as Fuel:
  • Most nuclear reactors use Uranium-235 due to its ability to sustain fission.
  • Uranium is non-renewable but widely available in nature.
  • Enrichment increases U-235 concentration from its natural level (0.7%) to about 3%-5% for reactor use.
• Fuel Rods and Assemblies: Uranium fuel is shaped into ceramic pellets, stacked in metal rods, and bundled into assemblies.

4. Types of Nuclear Reactors

• Pressurized Water Reactor (PWR):
  • Uses water as both coolant and moderator.
  • Operates under high pressure to prevent boiling in the primary circuit; steam is generated in a secondary circuit.
• Boiling Water Reactor (BWR):
  • Generates steam directly in the reactor core for turbine operation.
• Heavy Water Reactor (HWR):
  • Uses heavy water (deuterium oxide) as a moderator and coolant.

5. Advantages of Nuclear Energy

1. Low Carbon Emissions: A clean energy source contributing to climate change mitigation.
2. High Energy Density: A small amount of nuclear fuel produces a large amount of energy compared to fossil fuels.
3. Base Load Power: Provides stable and continuous electricity supply, complementing intermittent renewable sources.

6. Challenges of Nuclear Energy

1. Radioactive Waste Management: Safe disposal and long-term storage are critical concerns.
2. Nuclear Accidents: Incidents like Chernobyl (1986) and Fukushima (2011) highlight safety risks.
3. High Initial Costs: Construction and decommissioning of nuclear plants require significant investment.
4. Non-Proliferation Risks: Potential misuse of nuclear technology for weapon development.

7. India’s Nuclear Energy Program

• India’s three-stage nuclear program focuses on utilizing thorium reserves alongside uranium:
  • Stage 1: PHWRs using natural uranium as fuel and heavy water as moderator.
  • Stage 2: Fast Breeder Reactors (FBRs) producing plutonium-based fuel.
  • Stage 3: Thorium-based reactors leveraging India’s abundant thorium resources.

Conclusion: A Visionary Path Forward

The Union Budget 2025-26 marks a transformative shift in India’s approach to energy security and sustainability by prioritizing nuclear power development. The Nuclear Energy Mission for Viksit Bharat underscores the government’s commitment to leveraging advanced technologies like SMRs and BSRs while fostering public-private collaborations.

By scaling up its nuclear capacity from 8 GW today to an ambitious target of 100 GW by 2047, India is positioning itself as a global leader in civil nuclear technology. This initiative not only supports domestic economic growth but also strengthens India’s role as a responsible global player committed to combating climate change through clean energy solutions.

As Prime Minister Narendra Modi aptly stated, “Civil nuclear energy will ensure a significant contribution to the country’s development in future.” Indeed, with strategic investments and policy interventions, India is poised to unlock the full potential of nuclear power as a pillar of its sustainable development journey toward Viksit Bharat.

MCQ

Q. With reference to India’s nuclear energy program, consider the following statements:

1. India’s three-stage nuclear program aims to utilize thorium as a primary fuel in its final stage.
2. Pressurized Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs) form the backbone of India’s first stage of nuclear energy generation.
3. India has already achieved commercial deployment of thorium-based reactors.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

• a) 1 and 2 only
• b) 2 and 3 only
• c) 1 and 3 only
• d) 1, 2, and 3

Correct Answer: a) 1 and 2 only

Explanation:

• Statement 1 is correct: India’s three-stage nuclear program envisions the use of thorium in its third stage due to India’s abundant thorium reserves.
• Statement 2 is correct: PHWRs using natural uranium as fuel and heavy water as moderator are central to the first stage of India’s nuclear energy program.
• Statement 3 is incorrect: India has not yet achieved commercial deployment of thorium-based reactors; they are still in the research and development phase.

Mains Question
“Nuclear energy has the potential to play a pivotal role in India’s energy transition, ensuring energy security and sustainability.” Discuss the significance of nuclear energy in India’s energy mix, the challenges associated with its adoption, and the measures taken by the government to enhance nuclear capacity. (250W, 15M)