India's Nuclear Power Corporation Plans Annual Commissioning of New Reactor

The Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL) is embarking on an ambitious initiative to commission a nuclear power reactor each year, according to Chairman and Managing Director BC Pathak. In a recent interview with The Hindu, Pathak shed light on the achievements and future trajectory of India's nuclear power sector.

NPCIL achieved a significant milestone on December 17, 2023, when the fourth unit of India's largest indigenous 700-MWe pressurized heavy water reactor (PHWR) in Kakrapar, Gujarat, attained criticality. Pathak underscored NPCIL's commitment to sustaining this momentum, with plans to commission another 700-MWe unit in Rawatbhata, Rajasthan, in 2024.

In the interview, Pathak drew attention to the distinction between electricity generation and energy, emphasizing the imperative to decarbonize the broader energy sector. He highlighted the potential role of nuclear power in generating green hydrogen, contributing to global endeavors for a cleaner energy transition.

Addressing concerns about delays in commissioning the Kakrapar-3 unit, Pathak clarified that despite commissioning experiments and challenges, the reactor was successfully connected to the grid six months after achieving criticality. He emphasized the advanced safety features of the 700-MWe PHWRs, positioning them as among the safest reactors globally.

Dismissing claims that NPCIL would exclusively focus on 700-MWe PHWRs, Pathak expressed readiness to consider 220-MWe PHWRs if necessary, emphasizing the importance of achieving economies of scale to meet India's substantial electricity requirements.

Pathak provided insights into India's commitment to expanding its nuclear power capacity, detailing the progress of various nuclear projects across the country, including upcoming reactors (Rajasthan Atomic Power Station-7, Madras Atomic Power Station-1, Tarapur Atomic Power Station-1, Kudankulam-3,4, 5, and 6) and initiatives such as green hydrogen production.

On delays in projects at Jaitapur in Maharashtra and Kovvada in Andhra Pradesh involving French and American collaborations, Pathak mentioned ongoing discussions on technical issues with EDF and Westinghouse.

Looking ahead, Pathak emphasized NPCIL's adherence to a three-stage nuclear power program, expressing confidence in India's self-sufficiency in energy security as the country progresses through the stages of its nuclear power program. "I don't think there is any delay. We are on the right track. Our three-stage programme is the best in the world. It is self-sustaining," said Pathak.

BS