India’s Big Move: 40-50 Small Modular Nuclear Reactors to Transform Power Sector by 2070, Says Tata CEO Amit Sharma

India aims to deploy 40-50 small modular nuclear reactors to replace older thermal power plants and help achieve net-zero emissions by 2070. These reactors, known as Pressurised Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs), are being redesigned to be more standardised and easier to deploy.

Redesign and Safety Enhancements

The redesign will use modern 3D design tools to improve standardisation and safety, making the reactors suitable for old thermal power plants used in industries like steel, aluminium, copper, and cement. Tata Consulting Engineers, along with the Department of Atomic Energy, is leading this effort.

Timeline and Goals

Amit Sharma, CEO of Tata Consulting Engineers, says the plan is to build 40-50 of these small reactors in the next seven to eight years. The goal is to ensure they are modular, scalable, and meet the latest safety standards.

Government Support and Private Sector Involvement

In the recent Union budget, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced government support for setting up Bharat Small Reactors and partnering with the private sector for their development. This includes research and development of new nuclear technologies.

Advantages of Small Modular Reactors

Unlike traditional reactors, small modular reactors (SMRs) can be built in factories and transported to their sites. They have a power capacity of up to 300 MWe per unit and can be set up in locations unsuitable for larger plants. SMRs are expected to play a key role in India’s energy transition and in tackling climate change.