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

Nuclear Power is the fifth largest source of electricity generation in India after thermal, renewable, hydroelectric and other major sources. As of 2026, India has 24 operational nuclear reactors with a total installed capacity of 8,780 MW (8.78 GW) across seven locations. The country’s long term target is to achieve 100 GW of nuclear power capacity by 2047 under the Nuclear Energy Mission. Nuclear power contributes around 3.1% of India’s total electricity generation while providing a reliable source of clean, low carbon energy.

Nuclear Power Plants in India

Nuclear Power Plants in India play an important role in ensuring energy security, reducing carbon emissions and supporting sustainable economic growth. 

• During 2024-25, India’s nuclear power plants generated 56,681 Million Units (MU) of electricity. 
• A major milestone was achieved on 6 April 2026, when the 500 MWe Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR) at Kalpakkam attained its first criticality, officially marking India’s entry into the second stage of its three stage nuclear power programme envisioned by Dr. Homi J. Bhabha. 
• The Government is also promoting indigenous Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) under the Nuclear Energy Mission announced in the Union Budget 2025-26.

Nuclear Power Plants in India List

Nuclear Power Plants in India are operated mainly by the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL) under the Department of Atomic Energy, while the Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor at Kalpakkam has been developed by BHAVINI. 

India currently operates 24 nuclear reactors. The latest list of operational reactors is given below.

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Under Construction Nuclear Power Plants in India

India is rapidly expanding its nuclear power capacity through several ongoing projects. These projects include indigenous 700 MW PHWRs, 1000 MW PWRs and the 500 MW Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor. After completion of these projects, India’s installed nuclear capacity is expected to reach 22.38 GW by 2032. Examples- RAPP-8 (Rawatbhata, Rajasthan), KKNPP-3&4 and KKNPP-5&6 (Kudankulam, Tamil Nadu), PFBR& (Kalpakkam, , Tamil Nadu), GHAVP-1&2 (Gorakhpur, Haryana).

Also Read: Viksit Bharat 2047

Proposed Nuclear Power Plants In India List

Several new nuclear power projects are currently in the pre project stage to support India’s long term target of 100 GW nuclear capacity by 2047.

Nuclear Power Plants in India Significance

The key highlighting advantages and importance of the Nuclear Power Plants in India has been listed below: 

• Clean Energy Source: Nuclear power produces very low carbon emissions and supports India’s net zero target for 2070.
• Reliable Baseload Power: It supplies continuous electricity throughout the year unlike weather dependent renewable sources.
• Energy Security: Reduces dependence on imported fossil fuels and strengthens long term energy independence.
• Efficient Fuel Use: Small quantities of nuclear fuel generate large amounts of electricity.
• Supports Three Stage Programme: Enables India’s long term plan to utilize its vast thorium reserves.
• Promotes Indigenous Technology: Encourages development of advanced reactors, Fast Breeder Reactors and Small Modular Reactors.
• Economic Development: Creates skilled employment and supports research, manufacturing and engineering sectors.
• Climate Commitments: Helps India increase the share of non fossil fuel based electricity generation.

Nuclear Power Plants in India Recent Development

• Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR): On 6 April 2026, the 500 MWe PFBR at Kalpakkam achieved first criticality, officially marking India’s entry into the second stage of its three stage nuclear programme.
• Three Stage Nuclear Programme: India is progressing from PHWRs to Fast Breeder Reactors, which will eventually enable large scale use of thorium based reactors for long term energy security.
• Nuclear Energy Mission: The Union Budget 2025-26 announced a mission targeting 100 GW nuclear capacity by 2047, supported by an allocation of ₹20,000 crore for indigenous Small Modular Reactors.
• SHANTI Act 2025: The Act modernises India’s nuclear legal framework and allows limited private sector participation under regulatory oversight.
• Capacity Expansion: India’s installed nuclear capacity stands at 8.78 GW and is expected to increase to 22.38 GW by 2031-32 with ongoing and upcoming projects.
• International Cooperation: India has signed Civil Nuclear Cooperation Agreements with 18 countries for peaceful use of nuclear energy and advanced reactor technologies.
• Strong Operational Performance: NPCIL generated 10,863 Million Units during April-May FY 2026-27, while cumulative generation since 1969 crossed 989,548 Million Units, avoiding nearly 851 million tonnes of CO₂ equivalent emissions.

Nuclear Power Plants in India Challenges

• High Capital Cost: Nuclear power plants require very high investment in construction, technology and safety infrastructure.
• Long Project Timelines: Regulatory approvals, land acquisition and complex engineering often delay project completion.
• Fuel Availability: Limited domestic uranium reserves require continued international cooperation for fuel supply.
• Radioactive Waste Management: Safe storage, transportation and disposal of spent nuclear fuel remain long term challenges.
• Public Awareness: Concerns regarding safety and radiation continue to affect public acceptance of new projects.
• Skilled Workforce Requirement: Expansion of the nuclear sector requires trained engineers, scientists and specialised manufacturing capabilities.
• Technology and Supply Chain: Indigenous manufacturing and specialised equipment production need further strengthening to support rapid capacity expansion.