India's Path to Achieving 100 GW of Nuclear Power by 2047 May Necessitate Strategic Reforms

07 May 2025

According to a report, India aims to attain an impressive nuclear power capacity of 100 GW by 2047, which will require a coordinated effort to tackle existing challenges and implement strategic reforms in the nuclear sector. India's strategy to generate 100 GW of nuclear power capacity by 2047 is in accordance with its objective to reach net-zero emissions by 2070.

The report outlines various essential strategies and reforms necessary for India to effectively enhance its nuclear power capacity. A key focus is reducing the duration required for the construction of nuclear power plants. It is also noted that projects in India typically require around a decade to finish, which is considerably longer than the global benchmark of roughly six years.

The report suggests enhancing foreign investment by permitting 49% foreign direct investment (FDI) in the nuclear power generation sector to facilitate increased capital inflows. Furthermore, the report states that diversifying fuel sources through international agreements and accelerating the transition to Stages 2 & 3 of India's nuclear programme are crucial for tackling the country's limited uranium reserves.

The report indicates that India's current nuclear capacity stands at approximately 8 GW, with an additional 7 GW in the construction phase, aiming to reach a target of 100 GW within the next twenty years. It underscores the necessity for a substantial increase in the speed of nuclear development.

Reaching the 100 GW goals in the next twenty years will require addressing various challenges; consequently, the government has launched the Nuclear Energy Mission, designating Rs 200 billion for research and development, as well as the implementation of a minimum of five Bharat Small Modular Reactors (BSMRs), as stated in the Union Budget. The BSR programme will allow the development of Pressurised Heavy Water Reactor (PHWR) reactors by the private sector for dedicated captive utilisation.