India's nuclear ambitions: Can Bharat Small Reactors trigger a 100 GW chain reaction?
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India's ambitious target of achieving 100 GW of nuclear capacity by 2047 is at a critical juncture. The nation currently operates around 8 GW of nuclear capacity, and while it has a planned capacity of 36 GW, only about 7 GW is under construction. The road to this massive expansion is filled with challenges, but the introduction of Bharat Small Reactors (BSRs) could potentially accelerate India's nuclear journey.The government has recognized the importance of nuclear power in achieving its net-zero commitments by 2070, and has earmarked Rs 200 billion for the Nuclear Energy Mission, which aims to drive research, development, and deployment of BSRs.These reactors, being smaller and modular, promise flexibility in deployment across diverse terrains. They are also expected to be more cost-efficient compared to traditional reactors, making them an attractive option for private players.However, an SBICAPS report highlights that India's nuclear sector is plagued by prolonged construction timelines, often stretching to 10 years — far above the global average of 6.3 years.This delay is largely due to regulatory clearances, land acquisition challenges, and supply chain disruptions. The Rawatbhata project in Rajasthan, which aims to add 1,400 MW of capacity, has faced significant delays, reflecting the systemic hurdles in India's nuclear sector.Fuel supply is another critical issue. India's domestic uranium reserves are limited, and the country relies on imports for around 65% of its nuclear fuel."This dependence exposes the sector to global supply chain disruptions and geopolitical risks. While the government has been exploring alternatives like fast breeder reactors using thorium, progress has been slow," the report noted.The Bharat Small Reactor program, as outlined by the report, is a strategic initiative designed to overcome some of these challenges. BSRs are expected to reduce construction complexity due to their modular design, allowing for faster deployment.The government's decision to involve private players in the development and operation of these reactors is a positive step, but it must be supported by comprehensive regulatory reforms.SBICAPS emphasizes that the approval process for nuclear projects in India remains cumbersome, marked by a high degree of bureaucratic oversight.This process must be streamlined, potentially through a single-window clearance mechanism. Additionally, private investors need greater clarity on fuel supply arrangements, as well as sovereign support for financing these capital-intensive projects.India's nuclear journey is at a critical crossroads. The success of Bharat Small Reactors could transform the sector, but only if the government can overcome the challenges of fuel supply, regulatory delays, and investor confidence. The next decade will be crucial in determining whether India can truly trigger a 100 GW nuclear chain reaction.
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