As India strives to become a $30 trillion economy by 2047, it faces a significant challenge in meeting its rapidly increasing energy demands. The country’s energy requirements are expected to surge from 10,500 TWh to 28,000 TWh by 2047, driving economic growth while aligning with global climate goals and India’s net-zero target by 2070. The energy sector accounts for approximately 75% of India’s emissions, making it crucial to balance development with environmental responsibility.
To address this, the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) is leading discussions on energy, environment, and climate, focusing on clear, actionable goals for sustainable growth. The strategy emphasizes a diversified energy mix, including solar, wind, biomass, hydro, coal with carbon capture, and a significant scale-up of nuclear power as a reliable, zero-emission baseload. The DAE is targeting 100 GW of nuclear capacity by 2047, with a mandate spanning nuclear power generation, research, and societal applications.
India’s nuclear roadmap envisions large indigenous reactors, international collaborations, small modular reactors (SMRs), and advanced technologies. Achieving the 100 GW target will require comprehensive policy reforms, a robust domestic manufacturing ecosystem, and mission-mode implementation. Recent progress includes a 60% growth in nuclear electricity generation over the past decade, with installed capacity rising 71% to 8,880 MW across 25 reactors.
Policy reforms, such as the Indian Nuclear Insurance Pool and amendments to the Atomic Energy Act, aim to facilitate faster capacity expansion. The DAE has also made significant strides in basic and applied research, including the development of research reactors, medical cyclotrons, and radiation-assisted food preservation technologies. The National Cancer Grid has expanded, treating approximately 125,000 new patients annually.
The future roadmap focuses on a five-pillar strategy for a balanced energy future, including solar, wind, biomass, run-of-river hydro, coal with CCUS, and nuclear power. Immediate priorities include maintaining high capacity factors for operating reactors, progressing joint venture projects, advancing SMR deployment, and expanding societal applications. This systematic approach aligns with India’s Viksit Bharat 2047 vision, combining sustainable innovation, technological advancement, and societal empowerment. By 2047, India aims to achieve a balanced energy mix, with nuclear power playing a crucial role in meeting the country’s energy demands while reducing emissions and contributing to a sustainable future.