What is the projected installed nuclear power capacity of India by 2031-32 as announced by Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh?

Solution

Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh announced that India's installed nuclear power capacity is projected to increase from the current 8,180 MW to 22,480 MW by 2031-32. This significant expansion aligns with India's energy transition goals, aiming for Net Zero by 2070. Studies have recommended a national nuclear capacity of 1 lakh MW by 2047 to support this transition. Over the past decade, India's nuclear power capacity has already increased by over 70%, from 4,780 MW in 2013-14 to the current 8,180 MW. Annual electricity generation from nuclear power plants has also seen a notable rise, from 34,228 million units in 2013-14 to 47,971 million units in 2023-24. Presently, the Nuclear Power Corporation India Limited (NPCIL) is implementing 21 reactors with a total capacity of 15,300 MW, while 9 reactors with a capacity of 7,300 MW, including the Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR), are under construction. Additionally, 12 reactors with a capacity of 8,000 MW, including Fast Breeder Reactors (FBR), are in the pre-project stages, contributing to the future growth of India's nuclear power capacity.