The Rise of Small Modular Reactors in India: A New Era for Nuclear Power

In a significant move towards diversifying its energy sources, Reliance Industries Ltd, Tata Power, and Adani Power have expressed formal interest in establishing small modular nuclear reactor (SMR) projects. This initiative aligns with India’s broader objectives to enhance its energy security and transition towards cleaner energy solutions. Other companies like Hindalco Industries, JSW Energy, and Jindal Steel have also shown enthusiasm in response to proposals from the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Ltd (NPCIL) for the Bharat Small Modular Reactors (BSMR).

The Landscape of BSMR Projects

Tentatively, 16 sites across six states—Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, Jharkhand, and Chhattisgarh—have been earmarked for these BSMR projects. Under NPCIL’s supervision, these endeavors are expected to operate with a clear structure of asset ownership and operational control remaining with NPCIL. The successful bidders will have beneficial rights to the net electricity generated, which will primarily serve their captive consumption.

The success of this initiative hinges on private players financing the entire project, including all capital costs. The arrangement stipulates that these entities will also reimburse NPCIL for costs incurred throughout the project’s lifecycle, ranging from pre-project activities to actual decommissioning. In return, participants will gain assured access to the generated electricity, a vital advantage for energy-intensive industries like steel and cement.

Understanding Small Modular Reactors

Small modular reactors, characterized by their generating capacity ranging from 30 MWe to 300 MWe per unit, are increasingly recognized as a viable alternative for meeting energy demands, particularly as conventional nuclear projects face delays. Although they offer only a fraction of the output of traditional reactors, SMRs present a promising avenue for large-scale, low-carbon electricity generation.

These compact reactors also hold the potential to repurpose decommissioned thermal power plant sites. Given the current global energy dynamics, where giants like Google and Microsoft seek stable, clean energy sources for their expansive data centers, SMRs could serve as a pivotal solution, especially when renewable sources alone cannot meet the demand.

Global Context and Technological Innovations

Globally, the commercial viability of SMRs is still being established. As of now, only two projects have reached operational status: Russia’s Akademik Lomonosov, a floating power unit, and China’s HTR-PM demonstration project. Several companies, including Holtec International and Rolls-Royce SMR, are also developing SMR technology, but questions remain regarding the broader acceptance and feasibility of nuclear energy projects.

The Indian government, however, is steadfast in its ambition to bring this technology into the fold, recognizing SMRs as essential for achieving energy transition goals while also positioning India as a future leader in nuclear technology dissemination.

India’s SMR Strategy

The BSMR initiative is a cornerstone of the Indian government’s strategy to integrate into the manufacturing pipeline of small modular reactors. This approach not only addresses the pressing need for clean energy but also positions India as an emerging power in the nuclear technology landscape.

To facilitate these advancements, India is focused on decarbonizing its industrial sectors. By incorporating SMR technology, which can provide base load power necessary for a stable grid, India aims to balance the variability introduced by renewable energies. This shift is increasingly important given the limitations of grid-scale storage solutions at this stage of energy transition.

Technological Development and Challenges

India’s civil nuclear program, while experienced in manufacturing smaller reactor types, faces challenges with its current reactor technology. The predominant use of heavy water and natural uranium in existing pressurized heavy water reactors (PHWRs) places India at a technological crossroads, necessitating a transition to light water reactors (PWRs) which are more widely adopted globally.

To address these issues, the Indian government is guiding the development of at least three SMR prototypes, designed by the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC). Among these are the Bharat Small Reactor, a 220 MWe PHWR-based prototype, and two light water reactor designs. Plans are underway for establishing lead units of these reactors for technology demonstration, with expectations for construction timelines of approximately five to six years after receiving project approvals.

Legislative Efforts to Support Nuclear Expansion

Alongside technical developments, legislative frameworks are being revised to align India’s nuclear policies with international standards. This is crucial for alleviating investor concerns and promoting foreign investments in the nuclear sector. Two significant legislative amendments are currently in the pipeline, aimed at simplifying regulatory processes and fostering an environment conducive to nuclear energy ventures.

India’s strong commitment to these legislative changes has been reinforced through public affirmations in the union budget, signaling a clear intent to open the civil nuclear sector to new investments and technological partnerships, particularly from countries that possess advanced SMR capabilities.

Conclusion: A Future Built on SMR Technology

With major players entering the SMR landscape and the Indian government committed to advancing this technology, the future of nuclear power in India looks promising. As the nation aims to balance economic growth with energy sustainability, the integration of small modular reactors stands as a testament to innovative solutions that can meet the demands of a rapidly evolving energy landscape.