India Targets 100 GW Nuclear Power by 2047
In a move to bolster India’s energy security and clean energy ambitions, the Ministry of Power convened a meeting of the Consultative Committee of Members of Parliament to discuss the “Roadmap for Development of Nuclear Power Generation.” Chaired by Union Minister for Power and Housing & Urban Affairs, Shri Manohar Lal, the session emphasized the strategic role of nuclear energy in achieving India's net zero carbon emissions target by 2070.
Currently, India operates 25 nuclear reactors across seven sites, generating 8,880 MW—about 3% of the country’s total electricity. Another 6,600 MW is under construction, with 7,000 MW more in the pre-project stage. To meet future energy needs, the government has set an ambitious goal: achieving 100 GW (100,000 MW) of nuclear power capacity by 2047, in line with the Viksit Bharat @2047 vision.
Nuclear power, being a non-fossil, stable, and reliable source of energy, was highlighted as vital for reducing dependence on fossil fuels. Beyond power generation, the Minister noted its potential for hydrogen production, desalination, space heating, and industrial steam—key elements in India’s broader energy transition.
To accelerate deployment, the government is planning key reforms, including:
- Amending the Atomic Energy Act and Civil Liability Law to allow broader participation from state and private sectors
- Fast-tracking regulatory clearances and facilitating brownfield expansions on retired thermal power sites
- Offering tax incentives, long-term financing, and classifying nuclear power as green energy
- Promoting indigenous manufacturing under Make in India and diversifying reactor technologies through competitive bidding
- Securing uranium supply chains and expanding the equipment vendor base
- Enhancing skilled manpower through stronger nuclear education and training infrastructure
Members of Parliament welcomed the initiatives and called for expedited execution, stronger public engagement, and a robust ecosystem for vendors and skilled professionals.
The Minister assured close coordination with the Department of Atomic Energy, state governments, and industry to drive nuclear development, reinforcing India’s path to a clean, sustainable, and secure energy future.