Nuclear Power Plants in India, List, Location, Capacity, Reactor Type

The fifth largest source of electricity in India is Nuclear Power after thermal, hydroelectric and renewable sources of electricity. Currently, there are 22 Nuclear Power Plants in India operating in seven states with 6780 MegaWatt (MWe) out of which 18 reactors are Pressurised Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs) and 4 are Light Water Reactors (LWRs). The responsibility for generating nuclear power in India lies with the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL), a public sector enterprise headquartered in Mumbai. NPCIL functions under the administrative control of the Department of Atomic Energy, Government of India.

Nuclear Power Plants in India

Nuclear Power Plants in India play an important role in energy resources which ensure a balanced and sustainable power supply. Recognised as a clean and environment-friendly option, Nuclear Power serves as a reliable energy source available. As of 2021, the country operates 22 nuclear reactors with a combined installed capacity of 6,780 MWe, maintaining an operational efficiency of more than 80% plant load factor. 

Of these, 18 are Pressurised Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs) and 4 are Light Water Reactors (LWRs). The First Nuclear Reactor of Asia was Apsara commissioned in Mumbai, marking a significant milestone in the atomic journey of India.

List of Nuclear Power Plants in India

Nuclear Power Plants in India span multiple states, with all commercial nuclear power plants operated by the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL). These facilities employ a range of reactor technologies, including Pressurised Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs), Light Water Reactors (LWRs), and Fast Breeder Reactors (FBRs). Below is a List of Nuclear Power Plants in India currently in operation.

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List of Nuclear Power Plants in India (Under Construction)

Below are the List of Nuclear Power Plants in India currently under construction in India. The table includes key details such as the location of each plant, reactor type, installed capacity, and the expected year of completion. 

Nuclear Power Plants In India (To Be Constructed)

Below are the Nuclear Power Plants In India that are planned for future development in India. The list includes the location of each site and the planned power generation capacity.

Nuclear Power Plants in India Advantages

• Low Carbon Emissions: Generates minimal greenhouse gases, helping reduce environmental impact and mitigate climate change.
• High Energy Efficiency: Produces large amounts of electricity from small quantities of nuclear fuel.
• Enhanced Energy Security: Decreases dependence on imported fossil fuels, supporting national energy independence.
• Reliable Baseload Supply: Offers a steady and uninterrupted power output, unlike variable sources like solar or wind.
• Cost-Effective Over Time: While capital-intensive initially, nuclear plants have low long-term operating and fuel costs.
• Drives Technological Innovation: Promotes R&D in advanced nuclear technologies, including thorium-based reactors.
• Generates Employment: Creates job opportunities in plant construction, operations, safety, and maintenance.
• Utilization of Indigenous Resources: Supports India’s three-stage nuclear programme through efficient use of domestic thorium reserves.

Also Check: India Nuclear Power 2047

Nuclear Power Plants in India Recent Development

• Bharat Small Reactors (BSR): India is working on compact, modular reactors designed for flexible deployment and lower costs. These small reactors represent a shift from conventional large plants and involve greater participation from private industry in design and innovation.
• Expansion of Capacity: The government has set a target to triple the country’s nuclear power capacity by 2032. Currently, six reactors are under construction, with several new large-scale projects in the pipeline.
• Global Partnerships: India is strengthening international cooperation by securing uranium supplies and partnering with countries like France and Russia for advanced reactor technologies.
• Focus on Sustainability: The Union Budget 2024 discusses investments in clean energy, including research into low-emission technologies such as ultra-supercritical thermal systems, in line with climate goals.
• Energy and Climate Alignment: These initiatives collectively aim to address India’s growing energy needs while maintaining commitments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote sustainable development.

Nuclear Power Plants in India Challenges

• High Capital Investment: Setting up nuclear power plants requires significant upfront costs for infrastructure, advanced technology, and safety systems.
• Public Resistance: Concerns over radiation, environmental impact, and past global nuclear incidents often lead to local opposition and protests.
• Fuel Supply Constraints: India’s limited domestic uranium reserves make the sector heavily reliant on imports, exposing it to supply chain risks.
• Radioactive Waste Management: Safely storing and disposing of nuclear waste remains a major technical and environmental challenge.

Project Delays: Nuclear projects frequently face execution delays due to regulatory clearances and acquisition issues.