India’s largest power producer, NTPC Limited, is intensifying its focus on clean energy by actively exploring nuclear power opportunities. The company is considering overseas uranium acquisitions to secure reliable fuel supplies for future nuclear plants, signalling a strategic shift from conventional coal-based operations.

Founded in 1975 as a thermal power producer, NTPC has steadily diversified its portfolio. It now has a total installed capacity of 83,026 MW spanning coal, gas, hydro, and solar sources. With an emphasis on non-fossil fuel expansion, the company plans to commission nuclear projects both independently and through partnerships.

According to PTI, NTPC’s board has approved a draft memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Uranium Corporation of India Ltd (UCIL). The MoU will enable joint techno-commercial due diligence of uranium assets abroad, allowing NTPC to secure critical resources for its nuclear ambitions.

NTPC’s nuclear entry will be led by Anushakti Vidhyut Nigam Ltd (ASHVINI), a joint venture with Nuclear Power Corporation of India Ltd (NPCIL). ASHVINI is developing the 2,800 MW Mahi-Banswara Nuclear Power Project in Rajasthan, with NPCIL holding 51 per cent and NTPC 49 per cent.

In January 2025, NTPC also established NTPC Parmanu Urja Nigam Ltd (NPUNL) to pursue nuclear projects independently. The company is in discussions with nuclear technology firms and state governments, including US-based Clean Core Thorium Energy (CCTE), to explore deployment of ANEEL (Advanced Nuclear Energy for Enriched Life) fuel.

Currently, nuclear power accounts for just 2 per cent (8,180 MW) of India’s total installed capacity of 475,212 MW. The government aims to achieve 100 GW of nuclear capacity by 2047. NTPC sees nuclear power as a reliable, low-carbon source capable of providing round-the-clock base load electricity, unlike intermittent renewables such as wind and solar that face land and storage constraints.

As of 22 September 2025, 11:29 AM, NTPC shares were trading at Rs 337.25 per share, down 0.41 per cent from the previous close.

By pursuing uranium resources overseas and strengthening nuclear partnerships, NTPC is positioning itself as a key player in India’s atomic energy sector. With government support and a clear roadmap, the company’s nuclear initiatives could play a pivotal role in meeting the nation’s clean energy targets while ensuring a dependable power supply.