Answer

Introduction

India’s nuclear power contributes ~3% of electricity with just 1.8% capacity (~8.8 GW), far below requirements. Achieving Viksit Bharat and net-zero demands rapid expansion to 100 GW by 2047, making reforms like SHANTI Act critical.

Body

Paradigm Shift (SHANTI Act)

• Private Entry: Allows private firms to build, own, operate plants ending Department of Atomic Energy monopoly.
  Eg: Needed to mobilize ~$200 billion investment for 90 GW addition.
• Market Model: Shifts from state-led to competitive nuclear ecosystem.
  Eg: Enables industries (steel, data centres) to adopt captive nuclear power.
• Regulatory Status: Grants statutory autonomy to AERB for credible oversight aligning with global norms.
• Liability Reform: Revises CLNDA to reduce investor risk and attract foreign players.
  Eg: Addresses long-standing concerns of suppliers like Westinghouse, EDF.
• Legal Overhaul: Replaces Atomic Energy Act 1962 & CLNDA 2010 with unified framework.

Challenges in achieving 100 GW Target

• High Cost: Nuclear power expansion requires massive capital investment (≈ ₹18 lakh crore).
  Eg: Imported reactor designs cost over $5 million/MW, compared to about $2 million/MW for PHWRs.
• Technological Dependence: India remains reliant on foreign reactor designs and technology, limiting self-sufficiency.
  Eg: Projects like Jaitapur and Kovvada have been delayed for over a decade.
• Waste Management Issues: There is lack of clarity on long-term disposal and management of nuclear waste.
• Public Fear & Resistance: Safety concerns and land acquisition issues persist, influenced by past global nuclear accidents, shaping negative public perception.
• Skill Gaps: There is a shortage of skilled manpower and a weak domestic supply chain.
  Eg: India needs a comprehensive ecosystem similar to China’s rapid reactor expansion model.

Way Forward

• Indigenous Focus: India should scale up PHWRs (220/700 MW) and develop Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) to enhance self-reliance.
  Eg: Government has allocated about ₹20,000 crore for SMR R&D.
• Cost Reduction: Adopting fleet mode construction and modular techniques can significantly reduce costs and delays.
  Eg: PHWRs can be completed in around 40 months under standardised construction.
• Financing Models: There is a need to develop PPP models and long-term tariff frameworks to attract investment.
  Eg: Nuclear power becomes viable due to its 60-year lifecycle and low operating costs.
• Regulatory Clarity: Clear and transparent policies on tariffs, liability, and fuel supply are essential.
• Public Trust: Building public confidence requires strong safety standards and greater awareness.
  Eg: Strengthening institutions like the AERB and ensuring transparent waste management can help.

Conclusion

Nuclear energy is central to achieving Viksit Bharat and net-zero by 2070, offering reliable baseload power. Effective SHANTI Act implementation, with transparency and indigenous capacity, can transform India into a competitive, low-carbon nuclear powerhouse.

DOWNLOAD PDF