India's Energy Revolution? NTPC Plans Massive Nuclear Power Push to Ditch Coal!

Energy

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Updated on 12 Nov 2025, 04:55 pm

State-owned power giant NTPC Limited is embarking on a significant transition by actively seeking land across 16 Indian states for the development of nuclear power plants. This strategic move is a key part of NTPC's plan to reduce its dependence on coal and contribute effectively to India's ambitious net-zero emissions goal. The company aims to expand its total generation capacity to 150 GW by 2032, with a specific target of contributing 30 GW to the nation's projected 100 GW nuclear power capacity by 2047.

This ambitious undertaking is expected to involve a substantial investment of approximately $62 billion. NTPC intends to focus on establishing large nuclear power plants with capacities of 1,500 MW and above. The company is exploring options for bulk procurement of nuclear reactors to drive down costs and has a preference for Pressurised Heavy Water Reactor (PHWR) technology due to its cost advantages, while remaining open to discussions with technology providers for potential collaborations. NTPC has already made its entry into the nuclear sector through a joint venture with Nuclear Power Corporation of India Ltd., contributing to a 2,800 MW project in Banswara, Rajasthan, where NTPC holds a 49% stake.

Impact: This news signifies a major strategic pivot for NTPC and the Indian energy sector. It signals a strong commitment to nuclear power as a crucial component of India's future energy mix, moving away from fossil fuels. The large-scale investment and development could stimulate growth in related industries, create significant employment opportunities, and positively impact NTPC's long-term financial performance and market valuation. The success of this plan hinges on regulatory approvals and effective execution. Rating: 8/10

Difficult terms: Net-zero goal: Refers to achieving a balance between the greenhouse gases emitted into the atmosphere and those removed from it. The aim is to stop the net increase of greenhouse gases. GW (Gigawatt): A unit of electrical power, equivalent to one billion watts. It is commonly used to measure the capacity of power generation plants. MW (Megawatt): A unit of electrical power, equivalent to one million watts. It is a smaller unit than a gigawatt and is often used for individual power plant units or smaller facilities. Pressurised Heavy Water Reactor (PHWR): A type of nuclear reactor that uses heavy water (deuterium oxide) as both a moderator and coolant. PHWRs are known for their ability to use natural uranium as fuel, making them cost-effective in certain contexts. Joint Venture (JV): A business arrangement where two or more parties agree to pool their resources for the purpose of accomplishing a specific task or business objective. In this case, NTPC is partnering with NPCIL. Atomic Energy Regulator: The governmental body responsible for overseeing and ensuring the safety, security, and regulatory compliance of all nuclear activities within a country.