India's nuclear power capacity doubles in a decade

It is currently exploring the use of small modular reactors.

India's nuclear power capacity doubled in a decade, rising from 4,780 megawatts (MW) to 8,180 MW, according to the Department of Atomic Energy.

Jitendra Singh, union minister of state (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Earth Sciences, MoS PMO, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, said this capacity is even  expected to reach 22,480 MW by 2031 to 2032.

He attributed this progress to actions such as the bulk approval of 10 reactors, increased funding allocations, collaborations with Public Sector Undertakings, and private sector participation.

India is also looking at rolling out small nuclear reactors, specifically the Bharat Small Reactors (BSRs) (220 MWe PHWRs) and developing Bharat Small Modular Reactors (BSMRs). Research and development has been initiated for BSMRs.

These reactors will support sectors that have captive power requirements, the department said.