Nuclear option: Small modular reactors can pave India’s path to clean energy
Subscribe to enjoy similar stories. As the world shifts towards a low-carbon energy landscape, India’s aim to expand its Small Modular Reactor (SMR) sector aligns well with its broader vision for sustainable energy security. The recent government focus on SMRs signals a transformative approach to nuclear energy that addresses the unique geographical, economic and industrial demands of the nation.
By design, SMRs offer a smaller and more flexible nuclear solution than large reactors. SMRs have a power capacity of up to 300 megawatts (MW) and the potential to play a pivotal role in the global reduction of carbon emissions. Their modular format allows for faster construction and scalable deployment across varied locations.
They can also act as a flexible complement to renewable energy sources like solar and wind, addressing their intermittency. However, when it comes to nuclear-power generation, several critical areas remain underexplored, ranging from private-sector participation to public perceptions, safety and security. By approaching these strategically, India can leverage SMRs to achieve a sustainable and secure energy future.
Need for private-sector involvement: India’s nuclear-energy sector has traditionally been restricted to state ownership and control, governed by the Atomic Energy Act of 1962, which prohibits private companies from owning or operating nuclear power plants. Currently, nuclear plants are owned and operated solely by public sector entities such as the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Ltd (NPCIL) under the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE). In India, expanding private sector participation in the nuclear space, particularly with SMRs, could introduce competitive efficiency, accelerate project
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