A new milestone has been reached in India’s nuclear energy sector with the fuel loading commencing at the 700 MW seventh unit of the Rajasthan Atomic Power Project. This marks a significant step towards the operationalization of the third big indigenous nuclear reactor, as announced by the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL) on Friday.
With advanced safety features, the indigenous reactors at the Rawatbhata site are among the safest in the world. The ongoing construction of the reactors, however, faced challenges leading to cost and time overruns.
Once operational, the two 700 MWe units at Rawatbhatta will make it India’s largest nuclear park, with a total of eight indigenous reactors. The NPCIL is actively working on expanding its nuclear power capacity, with plans for additional reactors to meet the nation’s energy needs.
As nuclear energy plays a crucial role in India’s energy mix for development, the government has allocated resources for the growth of the sector. The recent extension of the lifespan of a unit at RAPP-3 showcases the commitment to enhancing nuclear power generation in the country.
Published 02 August 2024, 15:36 IST