India to produce 63,000 MW nuclear power in next 15 years

IndiaCSR News Network

NEW DELHI: India will have nuclear power production facility of 63,000 MW in next 15 years. At present, nuclear power accounts for only 2% of India’s 284 gigawatt power capacity. Fossil fuels such as coal, gas and oil account for 70% of power output, followed by large hydroelectric projects contributing 15% and renewable sources 13%.

“The Integrated Energy Policy formulated in the year 2006 by Govt of India had envisaged reaching a nuclear power capacity of 63,000 MW by 2032.”, Dr Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) Development of North-Eastern Region (DoNER), MoS PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space informed Rajya Sabha in a written reply to a question on April 28, 2016.

“Further, the government in its recent submission of Intended Nationally Determined Contribution (INDC) has also stated that efforts are being made to achieve 63 GW installed capacity by the year 2032, if supply of fuel is ensured.”, Govt said in a statement.

The percentage share of energy from nuclear power by the end of the Twelfth Plan period is expected to be around 3%. In the 2016-17 budget speech, the Finance Minister has announced that the Government is drawing up a comprehensive plan, spanning next 15 to 20 years, to augment the investment in nuclear power generation.