The Odisha government is examining proposals from two companies, including National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC), to set up nuclear power plants in the State, but no decision has yet been taken, Additional Chief Secretary for energy Vishal Kumar Dev (ACS) said. He indicated the proposals are under detailed examination and that studies are still underway. The review process is reported to encompass technical assessments, environmental appraisal and consultations with relevant agencies to ensure regulatory compliance.

Dev stressed that safety of the environment and the people remains the foremost consideration in any move towards nuclear energy, and any further initiative will be founded on the principle that there must be no compromise on safety. He underlined that prospective projects will need to satisfy stringent safety benchmarks and follow established procedures before any approvals are issued. The administration will await the completion of studies before taking a formal position.

The remarks were delivered on the occasion of Lok Bhavan, formerly Raj Bhawan, receiving certification from the Indian Green Building Council (IGBC). Dev said students from Bhubaneswar, Cuttack and Puri had been invited to the event in order to encourage adoption of green practices on university campuses and to motivate them to seek IGBC certification. He also outlined ongoing efforts to promote rooftop solar systems and grid-connected solar power as part of the State's clean-energy initiatives.

Asked about a policy to promote new green buildings and convert existing structures, he indicated the initiative would initially focus on government buildings and suggested each department consider measures to make departmental facilities more sustainable. The presentation of the IGBC Platinum Green Campus certification to Lok Bhavan was described as a significant step towards promoting energy efficiency, renewable energy, water conservation and sustainable waste management across government infrastructure.