India plans to build a fleet of small nuclear reactors
India plans to construct 40 to 50 small nuclear reactors, the Bharat Small Reactor, to help heavy industries reduce carbon emissions, with increased private sector involvement aimed at improving efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
Read original article
India is set to construct a fleet of small nuclear reactors, specifically the 220-megawatt Bharat Small Reactor (BSR), to support heavy industries like steel and cement in achieving net-zero emissions. Announced by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitaraman during her budget speech, the initiative involves a public-private partnership, with Tata Consulting Engineers collaborating with the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) to deploy 40 to 50 reactors over the next decade. The BSR is an updated version of India's existing pressurized heavy water reactor technology, which has been operational since the 1980s. The project aims to address the growing demand from industries seeking to reduce their carbon footprints, especially in light of impending carbon tariffs from the European Union. While the BSR program is distinct from global small modular reactor (SMR) initiatives, it focuses on enhancing safety and reducing the exclusion zone around reactors to facilitate installation at industrial sites. The involvement of private companies in financing and constructing these reactors marks a significant shift in India's nuclear sector, although regulatory changes may be necessary. Critics express skepticism about the feasibility of the ambitious deployment timeline and the potential for higher costs associated with smaller reactors. However, proponents believe that increased private sector participation could lead to improved efficiency and cost-effectiveness in nuclear energy production.
- India plans to build 40 to 50 small nuclear reactors to support heavy industries.
- The Bharat Small Reactor (BSR) is based on existing pressurized heavy water reactor technology.
- The initiative aims to help industries reduce carbon emissions ahead of upcoming carbon tariffs.
- Increased private sector involvement in nuclear energy is expected to drive efficiency and cost reductions.
- Concerns remain about the feasibility and cost-effectiveness of small reactors compared to larger ones.
Related
Italy reconsiders nuclear energy 35 years after shutting down last reactor
Italy is considering reintroducing nuclear energy after 35 years. Prime Minister plans for small modular reactors to provide 11% of electricity by 2050, aiming to reduce fossil fuel dependence. Concerns persist over safety and waste management. Eni collaborates with MIT on nuclear fusion technology by 2030. Public opinion on nuclear power in Italy is divided.
Italy reconsiders nuclear energy 35 years after shutting down last reactor
Italy plans to reintroduce nuclear energy after 35 years, aiming for 11% nuclear power by 2050. The move towards small modular reactors faces concerns over safety, waste, and costs amid global nuclear expansion.
Rolls-Royce gets $6M to develop its ambitious nuclear space reactor
Rolls-Royce receives $6.2 million from UK Space Agency to develop nuclear micro-reactor for lunar bases and spacecraft. Compact, reliable power source fueled by uranium or plutonium pellets for space exploration.
How do you make safe, cheap nuclear reactors? Bury them a mile deep
Deep Fission is developing a small underground nuclear reactor to improve safety and reduce costs, utilizing natural pressure for passive cooling and seeking Department of Energy approval for a pilot plant.
Rolls-Royce wins pioneering deal to build mini nuclear plants in Czech Republic
Rolls-Royce will construct small modular nuclear reactors in the Czech Republic, with the first operational by the mid-2030s, modernizing the energy sector and creating significant export opportunities for the UK.
0 commentsRelated
Italy reconsiders nuclear energy 35 years after shutting down last reactor
Italy is considering reintroducing nuclear energy after 35 years. Prime Minister plans for small modular reactors to provide 11% of electricity by 2050, aiming to reduce fossil fuel dependence. Concerns persist over safety and waste management. Eni collaborates with MIT on nuclear fusion technology by 2030. Public opinion on nuclear power in Italy is divided.
Italy reconsiders nuclear energy 35 years after shutting down last reactor
Italy plans to reintroduce nuclear energy after 35 years, aiming for 11% nuclear power by 2050. The move towards small modular reactors faces concerns over safety, waste, and costs amid global nuclear expansion.
Rolls-Royce gets $6M to develop its ambitious nuclear space reactor
Rolls-Royce receives $6.2 million from UK Space Agency to develop nuclear micro-reactor for lunar bases and spacecraft. Compact, reliable power source fueled by uranium or plutonium pellets for space exploration.
How do you make safe, cheap nuclear reactors? Bury them a mile deep
Deep Fission is developing a small underground nuclear reactor to improve safety and reduce costs, utilizing natural pressure for passive cooling and seeking Department of Energy approval for a pilot plant.
Rolls-Royce wins pioneering deal to build mini nuclear plants in Czech Republic
Rolls-Royce will construct small modular nuclear reactors in the Czech Republic, with the first operational by the mid-2030s, modernizing the energy sector and creating significant export opportunities for the UK.