India’s reliance on nuclear power as a solution to its energy needs has been on the rise in recent years. According to official data, the country’s nuclear power generation capacity has more than doubled from 4,780 MW in 2014 to 8,180 MW in 2024. The Department of Atomic Energy aims to increase this capacity to 13.08 GWe by 2029, further enhancing the country’s energy security. Nuclear power has a distinct advantage over solar energy, as it can operate continuously, producing energy 24/7, regardless of weather conditions, whereas solar plants can only operate during sunny periods.
The Indian government has placed a strong emphasis on the development of small modular reactors (SMRs), inviting private players to invest in the technology. SMRs offer a more flexible, scalable, and cost-effective solution for nuclear power generation. The government has allocated Rs 20,000 crore for research and development of SMRs, aiming to have at least five indigenously designed operational reactors by 2033 and 100 GW nuclear capacity by 2047.
As India strives to meet its ambitious target of 500 GW from non-fossil sources by 2030, the country’s energy security will increasingly depend on a mix of solar, wind, hydro, and nuclear power. A balanced energy mix will not only ensure reliable power supply but also protect India from the volatility of global energy markets. The development of SMRs is critical to achieving this goal, as it will provide a more flexible and cost-effective solution for nuclear power generation.