India’s Nuclear Capacity to Reach 22,480 MW by 2031: Govt

The government said on Thursday that the country’s nuclear capacity is expected to reach 22,480 MW by 2031.

“There are currently 22 reactors with a total capacity of 6,780 MW in operation and one reactor, KAPP-3 (700 MW) will be connected to the grid in January 2021,” noted the Union Minister for Foreign Affairs Dr. Jitendra Singh in a written response to a question in the Rajya Sabha.

Singh noted that the government plans to increase the capacity of nuclear power production in the country. He added that 11 reactors are currently under construction at various stages, including KAPP-3 (700 MW) connected to the grid, totaling 8,700 MW. Singh further explained that the government has granted administrative approval and financial sanctions for the construction of 10 indigenous 700 MW heavy water high pressure reactors (PHWRs) to be set up in fleet mode.

“After the gradual completion of the projects under construction (8700 MW) and sanctions approved (7000 MW), nuclear capacity is expected to reach 22480 MW by 2031,” Singh added.

He said the government has also “in principle” approved five new sites to locate more nuclear power plants.

Singh explained that nuclear power is a clean, environmentally friendly base load source that is available 24×7. He added that it has huge potential that can sustainably guarantee the country’s long-term energy security.

“In addition, expanding nuclear power capacity will also help the country’s energy transition to achieve the goal of a net-zero economy. Therefore, nuclear power is an important part of the country’s energy mix and is being pursued along with other energy sources in a optimal way,” he wrote.

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