Knowledge Booster: Nuclear Energy Mission and Small Modular Reactors (SMRs)

Subject: Science and Technology, Economy, Government Schemes
Relevance: This topic is relevant for UPSC as it covers clean energy transition, technological advancements, energy security, and policy reforms in India’s nuclear sector.

Why in the News?

• The Union Budget 2025 announced a Nuclear Energy Mission with a budget of ₹20,000 crore for research & development of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs).

• The target is to operationalize at least five indigenously developed SMRs by 2033.

• Amendments to the Atomic Energy Act and the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act are proposed to increase private sector participation in building and operating nuclear power plants.

Key Aspects of Nuclear Energy Mission and SMRs

1. Nuclear Energy Mission:

   • Budget: ₹20,000 crore.

   • Objective: Research and development of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs).

   • Target: Operationalize at least five indigenously developed SMRs by 2033.

2. Small Modular Reactors (SMRs):

   • Definition: Advanced nuclear reactors with a power capacity of 30 MWe to 300 MWe (megawatt electrical) per unit.

   • Conventional nuclear reactors produce 500 MW or more.

   • Design: Simpler and modular, allowing components to be assembled in a factory instead of being constructed on-site.

   • Advantages: Lower costs, flexible deployment.

3. Types of SMRs:

   • Light Water Reactors (most common).

   • High-Temperature Gas Reactors.

   • Liquid Metal Reactors.

   • Molten Salt Reactors.

4. Global SMR Projects:

   • Akademik Lomonosov (Russia): Floating power unit with two 35 MWe modules, operational since May 2020.

   • HTR-PM (China): Demonstration project, grid-connected in December 2021, commercially operational since December 2023.

Importance of Nuclear Energy

• Reliable source of on-demand electricity generation, unlike renewables.

• Nuclear energy must more than double by 2050 to reach net zero (IAEA).

Policy Enablers for Private Sector Participation

1. Separate Vertical in Department of Atomic Energy:

   • Objective: Foster private participation in the Indian nuclear establishment.

   • Modeled after the space sector reforms.

2. Amendment to the Atomic Energy Act, 1962:

   • Objective: Open the door for private sector entry into nuclear power plant operations and the SMR sector as operators.

   • Currently, only state-owned Nuclear Power Corporation of India Ltd (NPCIL) and its joint ventures are allowed.

3. Changes to the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act, 2010:

   • Objective: Address concerns of foreign players (GE-Hitachi, Westinghouse, Areva) regarding liability in case of nuclear accidents.

   • Original legislation channelized operators’ liability to equipment suppliers, disincentivizing investment.

The Nuclear Energy Mission and promotion of SMRs are strategic moves by the Indian government to expand the nuclear energy sector, increase clean energy generation, and achieve energy security. The proposed policy changes aim to attract private sector investment and make India a leader in SMR technology.