India's 220 MW Reactors to Be Transformed into Bharat Small Reactors: Atomic Energy Commission Announces Modifications.

India is on the cusp of a significant advancement in its nuclear energy sector as the Atomic Energy Commission reveals plans to modify the nation’s existing 220 MW Pressurized Heavy Water Reactors (PHWR) into Bharat Small Reactors (BSR). These reactors are being readied for potential collaboration with the private sector, marking a pivotal moment in the country’s nuclear energy landscape.

 Modifying a Proven Design

RB Grover, a member of the Atomic Energy Commission, shared insights into this transformative initiative during an event at the Indian Institute of Management-Ahmedabad (IIM-A). “India already has a live 220 MW Pressurized Heavy Water Reactor design, with several of them operational across the country, including in Narora, Rajasthan, Kakrapar, Kalpakkam, and Kaiga,” Grover stated. 

The existing design, which has proven reliable over decades, is undergoing modifications to convert it into Bharat Small Reactors. “In other words, Bharat Small Reactors are nothing but 220 MW Pressurized Heavy Water Reactors with some improvements,” Grover explained. He emphasized that the modifications are minimal and incremental, rather than a complete redesign. This approach leverages India’s existing expertise while enhancing the reactors’ safety and efficiency.

 Collaboration with the Private Sector

The Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL) is spearheading the effort to create detailed drawings for these modified reactors. The initiative aligns with the Indian government’s strategy to involve the private sector in nuclear energy, as highlighted by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in the 2024-25 Budget speech. The government plans to partner with private companies to set up Bharat Small Reactors and engage in research and development of Bharat Small Modular Reactors (BSMR).

Grover further noted that NPCIL will not only design but also install and operate these reactors for private entities interested in using them as captive power plants. These reactors have the potential to generate hydrogen for industrial purposes or supply electricity, offering a versatile energy solution for industries looking to reduce their carbon footprint.

 Enhanced Safety Features

One of the key aspects of the modification involves enhancing the reactors’ safety features. “The new 220 MW reactors will also have a steel liner, and the control and instrumentation systems will be upgraded. It is already a safe reactor, and it will become even safer,” Grover assured. He mentioned that these modifications are expected to be completed within a year, ensuring that the reactors are ready for deployment in the near future.

 Historical Context and Future Prospects

India’s journey with PHWR technology began in the 1960s, during the Indo-Canadian nuclear cooperation. The first 220 MW reactor was constructed as part of the Rajasthan Atomic Power Station-1. However, following the Pokhran-1 nuclear tests in 1974, Canada withdrew its support, prompting India to indigenously develop and standardize the 220 MW reactor design.

Today, these reactors are the backbone of India’s nuclear power program. The transition to Bharat Small Reactors represents not only a continuation of this legacy but also an evolution towards more flexible and commercially viable nuclear energy solutions. 

 Conclusion

As India moves forward with the modification and deployment of Bharat Small Reactors, the collaboration between NPCIL and the private sector is poised to redefine the country’s nuclear energy landscape. This initiative not only reinforces India’s commitment to self-reliance in nuclear technology but also opens new avenues for industrial partnerships and sustainable energy production.