- The article discusses the recent developments in India’s nuclear energy sector, focusing on the NPCIL’s Request for Proposal for Bharat Small Reactors (BSRs).
- Highlights the progress in nuclear technology while addressing limitations on private sector involvement.
Current Regulatory Landscape
- Centralized Control: Governed by the Atomic Energy Act, 1962, with exclusive authority held by the central government.
- Safety Oversight: The Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) oversees safety standards.
- Liability Laws: The Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act, 2010, caps operator liability at ₹1,500 crore.
- International Compliance: Adheres to IAEA safeguards but is not a signatory to the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT).
Significance of Nuclear Energy
- Diversification of Energy Mix:
- Reduces dependence on coal (55% of energy needs).
- Aims to increase nuclear capacity from 7.5 GW to 100 GW by 2047.
- Climate Change Mitigation:
- Low-carbon energy source critical for achieving net-zero emissions by 2070.
- Contributes to India’s goal of 500 GW of non-fossil fuel energy by 2030.
- Reducing Import Dependence:
- Lowers reliance on imported fossil fuels (85% crude oil, 50% natural gas).
- Economic Growth:
- Creates jobs and stimulates local economies through large-scale projects.
- Base-Load Support:
- Provides stable electricity to support renewable energy sources.
- Geopolitical Leverage:
- Enhances India’s position in global energy geopolitics.
Key Issues
- Limited Energy Mix Contribution:
- Nuclear energy accounts for only 1.6% of total generation.
- Financial Challenges:
- High capital costs and long gestation periods deter investment.
- Imported Fuel Dependence:
- Vulnerability due to limited domestic uranium reserves.
- Safety Concerns:
- Public opposition fueled by fears of disasters and lack of waste disposal solutions.
- Project Inefficiencies:
- Delays in project execution due to outdated technology and bureaucratic hurdles.
- High Upfront Costs:
- Nuclear power’s levelized cost of electricity (LCOE) is higher than renewables.
- Waste Management Issues:
- No long-term solution for radioactive waste disposal.
Measures for Revamping
- Enhancing Private Participation:
- Amend the Atomic Energy Act to allow private sector involvement.
- Indigenous Technology Development:
- Promote collaborations for developing domestic technologies.
- Streamlining Land Acquisition:
- Integrate land acquisition laws with expedited project clearances.
- Establishing Fuel Reserves:
- Create strategic nuclear fuel reserves to mitigate supply risks.
- Regulatory Reforms:
- Establish an independent National Nuclear Energy Authority for streamlined approvals.
- Financial Support:
- Utilize Sovereign Green Bonds for funding nuclear projects.
- Skill Development:
- Integrate skill development initiatives to address workforce shortages.
- Radioactive Waste Management:
- Develop a comprehensive framework for waste disposal.
- Local Manufacturing Incentives:
- Encourage domestic manufacturing and reduce import reliance.
- Public Awareness Campaigns:
- Increase transparency and community engagement to build trust.
- Promoting Small Modular Reactors (SMRs):
- Focus on developing SMRs for decentralized energy needs.
India’s nuclear energy sector can drive energy security and economic growth. Structural and regulatory challenges need to be addressed through innovative policy reforms and technological advancements.