Nuclear Energy Vision 2047

23.07.2025

Nuclear Energy Vision 2047

Context

In the Union Budget 2025–26, the government announced a bold plan to increase nuclear energy capacity from 8.18 GW to 100 GW by 2047, with a ₹20,000 crore allocation for Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) by 2033. This aligns with the Viksit Bharat vision and net zero targets by 2070.

About the News

• India aims to scale nuclear power to 100 GW by 2047.
   
• ₹20,000 crore allocated for SMR development by 2033.
   
• Nuclear energy is seen as key to net zero and energy security.
   
• Plan aligned with Viksit Bharat 2047 goals.
   

Characteristics of Nuclear Energy Vision 2047

• Long plant life: Nuclear plants operate efficiently for 50–60 years.
   
• Base-load provider: Offers reliable energy, unlike intermittent renewables.
   
• SMR investment: Focus on indigenous modular reactors for flexible deployment.
   
• PHWR scaling: Expansion of 700 MW Pressurised Heavy Water Reactors.
   
• Private entry push: Proposals to amend Atomic Energy Act and CLNDA.
   
• Green label: Nuclear energy reclassified as green for easier financing.
   

Challenges

• CLNDA constraints: Supplier liability clause blocks foreign investment (e.g., U.S. firms).
   
• Regulatory gaps: AERB lacks statutory status; limits safety independence.
   
• Cost overrun risks: Delays in French and U.S. projects raise economic concerns.
   
• Tariff disputes: Ongoing cases (e.g., Gujarat Urja vs NPCIL) affect power sale agreements.
   

Way Forward

• Amend CLNDA: Rationalise supplier liability to enable foreign investment.
   
• Statutory regulator: Empower AERB for independent nuclear oversight.
   
• Green financing access: Classify nuclear as green to secure climate-linked funds.
   
• SMR pilot rollout: Start with public sector, then scale to private players.
   

Conclusion

India’s nuclear roadmap to 2047 reflects a strategic shift towards clean, firm, and scalable energy. By addressing legal and financial bottlenecks, and investing in indigenous technologies like SMRs, India can balance industrial growth with climate responsibility, making nuclear power a cornerstone of Viksit Bharat.