India’s Nuclear Energy Expansion: Russia, France, and the US Eye Small Modular Reactors
India's growing energy needs have led to increased global interest in its nuclear energy sector. Russian nuclear giant Rosatom has proposed offering India its expertise in developing small modular reactors (SMRs), which could be installed in coastal areas. This potential collaboration aligns with India's goal of achieving 100 gigawatts (GW) of nuclear energy by 2047.
Russia's Role in India's Nuclear Ambitions
Rosatom, a leading player in the global nuclear industry, has been involved in India's nuclear energy sector for years. It is currently constructing the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Project and has decades of experience in SMR technology. The company has already developed operational SMRs and previously offered India assistance in building small tropical nuclear power stations. These stations could be localized to include Indian-built components.
In 2024, Rosatom signed an agreement with Uzbekistan to construct an SMR-based power plant using a mix of Russian technology and local resources. This model could serve as a blueprint for India's SMR development.
A Rosatom executive, speaking anonymously, suggested that India's collaboration with Russia on SMRs could pave the way for advanced nuclear technology in the country.
US Interest in India's Nuclear Sector
The United States has also expressed interest in working with India on SMRs. The visit of then-US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan in January 2024 played a key role in strengthening civil nuclear cooperation between the two nations.
India and France’s Growing Nuclear Partnership
France, another major nuclear player, is also looking to deepen its ties with India in the nuclear sector. Both countries have agreed to collaborate on low and medium-power modular reactors and advanced modular reactors.
Additionally, they will continue working together on the Jules Horowitz Research Reactor, a project focused on advancing nuclear technology. In 2023, French nuclear company EDF launched Nuward, a subsidiary dedicated to SMR development.
Government Push for SMR Development
The Indian government has recognized the potential of SMRs and is making significant policy changes to support their development. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, in her recent budget speech, announced a Nuclear Energy Mission with a budget of ₹20,000 crore.
As part of this initiative, at least five indigenously developed SMRs will be operational by 2033. The government is also considering amendments to the Atomic Energy Act and the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act to facilitate greater private-sector participation in nuclear energy projects.
Sitharaman emphasized that achieving 100 GW of nuclear energy by 2047 is critical for India's energy transition efforts.
Conclusion
India's nuclear energy sector is attracting global interest, with Russia, the US, and France eager to collaborate on SMR development. With strong government backing and strategic international partnerships, India is poised to make significant strides in nuclear energy, ensuring a cleaner and more sustainable power supply for the future.
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