NTPC Seeks Global Partners for 15 GW Nuclear Reactor Expansion.

NTPC, India’s largest power producer, is seeking international partners to develop nuclear reactors with a combined capacity of 15 gigawatts (GW), according to a recent tender. This marks a significant step following India’s decision to open up its traditionally restricted nuclear energy sector.

The state-run company, primarily known for its coal-fired plants, aims to collaborate with global firms to establish pressurized water reactor technology-based nuclear power plants. NTPC is also requiring partners to commit to a lifetime supply of nuclear fuel, the tender states.

Interested partners must secure approval from their respective national authorities and adhere to Indian regulatory policies, including obtaining or possessing a license for the proposed technology, NTPC specified in its tender published last week. India’s Atomic Energy Act of 1962 currently prohibits private investments in nuclear power plants, and the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act of 2010 has deterred foreign firms such as GE and Westinghouse due to stringent liability clauses.

However, in February, the Indian government announced plans to amend the nuclear liability law to encourage foreign and private sector investments in the industry.

At present, Nuclear Power Corporation of India Ltd. (NPCIL), a state-run entity, is the sole operator of the country’s nearly 8 GW nuclear power capacity, with a goal of expanding to 20 GW by 2032. India has set an ambitious target of achieving at least 100 GW of nuclear power capacity by 2047.

NTPC itself has plans to develop 30 GW of nuclear capacity over the next two decades, with an estimated investment of $62 billion, according to a Reuters report from February.

HBL