SOURCE: AFI
As the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL) engages with private sector entities to explore the operation of 220 MW small modular reactors (SMRs), experts are anticipating potential collaboration with Russia’s state nuclear energy corporation, Rosatom.
Rosatom, which is already involved in the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant (KNPP) project, has expressed interest in expanding its nuclear cooperation with India. Kavya Wadhwa, a nuclear energy advocate and policy analyst, highlighted that the numerous benefits of Bharat Small Reactors, including their cost-effectiveness, compact design, and the utilization of indigenous 220 MWe Pressurized Heavy Water Reactor (PHWR) technology, have garnered significant international attention.
The potential for India to export its indigenous 220 MWe PHWR SMRs presents a promising avenue for international collaboration. In addition to SMRs, discussions are also ongoing regarding the export of Floating Nuclear Power Plants (FNPPs) from Russia to India, with the Akademik Lomonosov being a potential candidate.
The collaboration between India and Russia in the nuclear energy sector could lead to significant advancements in the development and deployment of advanced nuclear technologies. Such partnerships can also contribute to India’s energy security and sustainable development goals.