India’s first indigenous Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor at Kalpakkam, Tamil Nadu

Prime Minister Narendra Modi marked the beginning of a new era in India’s nuclear energy sector by witnessing the “Core Loading” at the Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR) in Kalpakkam, Tamil Nadu. This event signifies the near completion of India’s first indigenous PFBR, a landmark project fully designed and constructed within the country by Bharatiya Nabhikiya Vidyut Nigam Limited (BHAVINI), in collaboration with over 200 Indian industries, including numerous MSMEs.

India Joins an Elite Club

With the commissioning of the 500 MWe PFBR, India is set to become only the second country after Russia to operate a commercial Fast Breeder Reactor (FBR). This achievement not only places India at the forefront of nuclear technology but also underlines its commitment to developing clean and efficient energy sources.

The Future of Clean Energy

The PFBR is designed with a core consisting of control, blanket, and fuel sub-assemblies, minimizing nuclear waste and enhancing safety features. FBRs are touted as the next step in nuclear energy, capable of providing a safe, efficient, and environmentally friendly source of power. This aligns with the global goal of achieving net zero emissions and underscores India’s dedication to sustainable development.

Pioneering the Second Stage of Nuclear Power

BHAVINI’s role in constructing the 500 MWe PFBR marks a pivotal moment in India’s three-stage nuclear power programme. Entrusted with the mission to construct, commission, and operate Fast Breeder Reactors, BHAVINI is set to ensure energy security for India in the long term, showcasing the nation’s forward-thinking approach to energy solutions.

Emphasizing Safety and Sustainability

The PFBR stands out for its advanced third-generation design, featuring inherent passive safety features that ensure the reactor’s immediate and safe shutdown in emergencies. Its ability to utilize spent fuel from the first stage of India’s nuclear program significantly reduces nuclear waste, presenting a sustainable approach to nuclear energy that minimizes the need for large-scale geological disposal facilities.

Commitment to Peaceful Nuclear Applications

India’s expansion of its nuclear power program is essential for meeting the dual objectives of energy security and sustainable development. As a responsible nuclear power, India continues to invest in advanced technologies for peaceful nuclear applications, ensuring the secure use of nuclear and radiological materials in both power and non-power sectors.

This landmark achievement not only showcases India’s technological capabilities but also its commitment to pioneering clean and efficient energy solutions for a sustainable future.