India’s Largest Home-Built Nuclear Plant Starts Operations

India's Largest Home-Built Nuclear Plant Starts Operations

In a significant development for India’s energy sector, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that the 700 MW nuclear power plant located in Kakrapar, Gujarat, has commenced its operations at maximum capacity. This milestone marks a pivotal moment in India’s quest for energy self-sufficiency and underscores the nation’s commitment to harnessing indigenous nuclear technology.

Kakrapar Nuclear Power Plant Reaches Full Capacity

The Kakrapar Atomic Power Project (KAPP) had initiated its commercial operations on June 30, 2023, but initially operated at only 90 percent of its capacity. On August 31, 2023, the plant finally achieved its full operational potential.

The Kakrapar Nuclear Power Plant is a testament to India’s capability in developing and operating nuclear power facilities entirely on its own. The Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL) has been at the forefront of this endeavor.

Indigenous Development by NPCIL

Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL) is responsible for constructing two 700 MW pressurized heavy water reactors (PHWRs) at Kakrapar, Gujarat. Kakrapar is already home to two 220 MW power plants, and with the new 700 MW unit coming online, it strengthens India’s nuclear power generation capacity.

Expanding Nuclear Power in India

The NPCIL currently operates 23 commercial nuclear power reactors across the country. Moreover, the organization has plans to build a total of 16 700 MW PHWRs at various locations in India. Financial and administrative sanctions have reportedly been granted for these ambitious projects, emphasizing India’s drive to expand its nuclear power capacity.