India’s Indigenous Nuclear Power Capacity Projects & Vision
Growth, SMRs and Clean Energy Vision India is steadily strengthening its indigenous nuclear power generation capacity to ensure long-term energy security, reduce carbon emissions, and support sustainable economic growth. According to information released by PIB Delhi on 04 December 2025, the country has made significant progress in expanding nuclear power through home-grown technologies, advanced reactors, and future-ready Small Modular Reactors (SMRs). Nuclear power plays a crucial role in India’s clean energy transition as it provides reliable 24x7 base load electricity, unlike solar or wind energy which depend on weather conditions. With ambitious targets under the Nuclear Energy Mission, India aims to achieve 100 GW nuclear power capacity by 2047, supporting the national goal of Net Zero emissions by 2070. This article explains India’s present nuclear capacity, ongoing projects, future expansion plans, SMR development, and the role of nuclear energy in decarbonisation in simple and easy words.
Present Installed
Nuclear Power Generation Capacity in India
As of December 2025, India’s installed nuclear power generation capacity stands at 8,780 MW, excluding Rajasthan Atomic Power Station Unit-1 (RAPS-1). This capacity has been achieved mainly through indigenously designed Pressurised Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs) developed by Indian scientists and engineers. The steady rise in nuclear capacity reflects India’s strong focus on self-reliance (Atmanirbhar Bharat) in the strategic energy sector. All major nuclear projects are being executed using domestic technology, local manufacturing, and Indian manpower.
Nuclear Power Projects Under Active Construction India is currently constructing three 700 MW PHWR units, which will significantly boost nuclear power generation in the near future. Projects Under Construction 1. RAPS-8 (700 MW) Location: Rawatbhata, Rajasthan 2. GHAVP-1 & GHAVP-2 (2 × 700 MW) Location: Gorakhpur, Haryana
These reactors are based on proven indigenous PHWR technology and are being built with enhanced safety features and improved efficiency. Once completed, these projects will add 2,100 MW of clean and reliable electricity to the national grid.
Upcoming Nuclear Reactors in Pre-Project Stages In addition to projects under construction, ten more 700 MW nuclear reactors are at various stages of pre-project activities. These projects show India’s long-term commitment to nuclear power expansion. Locations of Planned Reactors Kaiga, Karnataka – 2 reactors Chutka, Madhya Pradesh – 2 reactors Gorakhpur, Haryana – 2 reactors Mahi Banswara, Rajasthan – 4 reactors
Together, these reactors will add 7,000 MW of indigenous nuclear power capacity once operational.
Development of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) in India
A major highlight of India’s nuclear roadmap is the design and development of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) by the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC). SMRs are compact, flexible, and suitable for diverse applications beyond conventional grid-based power generation. Types of SMRs Being Developed BARC has initiated work on three advanced SMR technologies: 1. Bharat Small Modular Reactor (BSMR-200) Capacity: 200 MWe Designed for industrial and captive power use
2. Small Modular Reactor (SMR-55) Capacity: 55 MWe Ideal for remote and off-grid locations
3. High Temperature Gas Cooled Reactor Capacity: Up to 5 MWth Designed for hydrogen generation
These reactors represent the next generation of indigenous nuclear technology and place India among leading nations in SMR development.
Demonstration of SMR Technologies To prove the safety, reliability, and efficiency of SMRs, India plans to construct lead demonstration units at Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) sites. Project Timeline Construction likely to begin after project sanctions Completion expected within 60 to 72 months
These demonstration projects will help validate the technology before large-scale deployment across the country.
Industrial and Strategic Applications of SMRs Small Modular Reactors offer unique advantages over large nuclear plants. Key Applications of BSMR-200 and SMR-55 Captive power for energy-intensive industries such as: Aluminium Steel Cement Metals
Repurposing of retiring coal-based power plants Power supply to remote, island, and off-grid areas Supporting industrial growth with clean energy
SMRs provide reliable electricity where grid access is limited, making them ideal for future industrial corridors and smart cities.
Hydrogen Production Using Nuclear Energy The high temperature gas cooled reactor under development is designed to produce clean hydrogen, which is emerging as a key fuel of the future. Uses of Nuclear-Generated Hydrogen Clean fuel for the transport sector Energy source for process industries Support for green steel and chemical manufacturing Reduction in fossil fuel dependency
Nuclear hydrogen can play a vital role in India’s National Hydrogen Mission, supporting decarbonisation across multiple sectors.
Role of Nuclear Power in Decarbonisation
Nuclear energy is one of the cleanest sources of electricity generation. It produces no greenhouse gas emissions during operation and ensures continuous power supply. Environmental Benefits Nuclear power has already prevented the release of about 822 million tons of CO₂ equivalent emissions Provides stable base load power alongside renewable energy Reduces air pollution and fossil fuel consumption
By supporting renewable energy and hydrogen production, nuclear power strengthens India’s climate action strategy.
Future Growth of Nuclear Power Capacity in India India has a clear roadmap for expanding its nuclear power generation capacity over the next decade. Expected Nuclear Capacity Growth 9,480 MW by 2025-26 11,480 MW by 2026-27 13,480 MW by 2029-30 21,880 MW by 2031-32
This growth will be achieved through the progressive completion of ongoing and planned nuclear projects.
Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR) Another important milestone is the 500 MW Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR) being developed by BHAVINI. Key Highlights of PFBR Capacity: 500 MW Technology: Fast breeder reactor Status: Advanced stage of commissioning Enhances fuel efficiency by recycling nuclear fuel
PFBR is a crucial step in India’s three-stage nuclear power programme, ensuring long-term sustainability of nuclear fuel resources.
Nuclear Energy Mission: Vision 2047 Under the Nuclear Energy Mission, India aims to achieve 100 GW of nuclear power capacity by 2047, coinciding with the centenary of Independence. Mission Objectives Strengthen energy security Support industrial growth Achieve Net Zero emissions by 2070 Promote indigenous technology Reduce dependence on imported fossil fuels
Nuclear power will be a backbone of India’s clean energy mix along with solar, wind, and hydro power.
India’s indigenous nuclear power generation capacity is growing steadily through advanced PHWRs, innovative SMRs, fast breeder reactors, and hydrogen-producing technologies. With strong government support, indigenous research, and long-term planning, nuclear energy is set to play a transformative role in India’s energy future. From powering industries and remote areas to enabling hydrogen fuel and reducing carbon emissions, nuclear power is central to India’s journey towards a clean, secure, and sustainable energy future. As India moves closer to its goals of 100 GW nuclear capacity by 2047 and Net Zero by 2070, indigenous nuclear technology will remain a pillar of national development and environmental responsibility.
