NTPC Ltd is presently considering the establishment of nuclear power units in Banka district, Bihar, as part of its initiative to diversify from coal and enhance its investment in cleaner energy options. The company is performing a feasibility study to assess the potential for constructing two nuclear power units, each with a capacity of 700 MW. These units would be situated approximately 250 km from Patna, the state capital.

If the feasibility study yields positive results, the project could involve funding of around Rs 25,000 crore. This proposal remains in the assessment phase, and a comprehensive project report will be formulated following the feasibility evaluation to ascertain the project’s viability, as reported by PTI and cited by government officials.

The Bihar government has expressed its commitment to support the initiative, particularly in terms of securing water resources, which are essential for the operation of nuclear power facilities. Initial estimates suggest that roughly 1,000 acres of land will be necessary for the proposed nuclear units.

Expansion of Nuclear Capacity in India

The proposed venture is a crucial component of NTPC’s broader strategy to increase its nuclear power generation capabilities in accordance with the Indian government’s long-term energy objectives. India has ambitious plans to achieve 100 GW of nuclear power by 2047, with NTPC targeting approximately 30 GW of nuclear capacity across multiple sites.

Additionally, NTPC aims to establish at least 2 GW of nuclear power capacity by 2032. Industry analyses indicate that the development of 1 GW of nuclear power generally necessitates an investment ranging from Rs 15,000 crore to Rs 20,000 crore and typically requires a minimum of three years from conceptualisation to active operation.

This initiative underscores the increasing commitment to nuclear energy as India attempts to meet the rising energy demand while transitioning to cleaner energy sources. The push towards nuclear capacity aligns with national goals promoting sustainability in the energy sector.

Diversifying Energy Portfolio at NTPC

NTPC, which currently boasts an installed capacity exceeding 89,615 MW at the group level, is actively diversifying its energy portfolio to include not only coal but also gas, hydro, and renewable energy sources. The company’s efforts are aimed at addressing modern energy challenges by providing a balanced mix of energy options.

Moreover, NTPC is collaborating with the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Ltd on a nuclear project in Rajasthan, which comes with an estimated investment of around Rs 42,000 crore. The latest proposal in Bihar reflects NTPC’s intent to rapidly advance its nuclear energy initiatives, particularly in light of new policy reforms intended to attract greater investment to the sector.

While the Bihar project is still in its early stages, it signals NTPC’s ambitious plans to significantly increase its footprint in the nuclear power sector in the forthcoming years. This focus aligns with the growing recognition of nuclear energy’s potential in fulfilling the country’s future energy needs while addressing environmental concerns.

Long or Short, get news the way you like. No ads. No redirections. Download Newspin and Stay Alert, The CSR Journal Mobile app, for fast, crisp, clean updates!

App Store –  https://apps.apple.com/in/app/newspin/id6746449540 

Google Play Store – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.inventifweb.newspin&pcampaignid=web_share