India’s First Prototype Fast-Breeder Reactor Set for Commissioning by September 2026

India is on the verge of a major milestone in its nuclear energy journey with the expected commissioning of its first Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR) in Kalpakkam, Tamil Nadu, by September 2026. This reactor marks a significant advancement in the country’s ambitious three-stage nuclear programme, which aims to utilize its vast thorium reserves and minimize nuclear waste.

What is a Fast Breeder Reactor?

A Fast Breeder Reactor (FBR) is a type of nuclear reactor that produces more fissile material than it consumes. Unlike conventional reactors that mainly use uranium, FBRs are designed to “breed” fuel, making them highly efficient. The PFBR at Kalpakkam is a 500 megawatt (MW) reactor that uses a unique plutonium-based mixed oxide (MOX) fuel and liquid sodium as a coolant, instead of water.

This technology not only recycles used nuclear fuel but also generates more fuel, making it an essential component for sustainable and long-term nuclear energy production.

Key Features and Specifications

• Type: Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR)

• Location: Kalpakkam, Tamil Nadu

• Capacity: 500 MW

• Fuel: Mixed oxide (MOX) fuel composed of plutonium and uranium

• Coolant: Liquid sodium

• Operator: Bharatiya Nabhikiya Vidyut Nigam Limited (BHAVINI)

• First Criticality Expected: By 2025-26

• Full Commissioning: Targeted by September 2026

Why is the PFBR Important?

The commissioning of the PFBR marks the beginning of the second stage in India’s nuclear programme. In this stage, the spent fuel from the existing Pressurised Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs) is reprocessed and used in the PFBR. This not only reduces radioactive waste but also leads to energy self-sufficiency by creating more fuel than is consumed.

In the third stage, India plans to use thorium-based reactors, powered by the plutonium bred in fast reactors like the PFBR. India has abundant thorium reserves, and this closed fuel cycle strategy is crucial for the country’s long-term energy needs.

Recent Developments

In March 2023, Prime Minister Narendra Modi observed the core loading of the PFBR, a key step before initiating nuclear reactions. The Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) has already granted permission for fuel loading, low-power experiments, and first criticality. According to the Department of Atomic Energy, the reactor is currently in the advanced stage of integrated commissioning.

India's Expanding Nuclear Ambitions

India’s total installed nuclear power capacity currently stands at 8.18 GW. To meet its growing energy demands, India is pursuing a Nuclear Energy Mission aiming to generate 100 GW of electricity through nuclear power.

Here’s how India plans to reach that target:

• 7.30 GW worth of nuclear projects are under construction or commissioning

• 7.00 GW are sanctioned and undergoing preparatory work

• This will raise the total capacity to 22.48 GW by 2031-32

Beyond this:

• 15.40 GW will be added using indigenous PHWRs

• 17.60 GW from Light Water Reactors (LWRs) with foreign collaboration

• 3.80 GW from Fast Breeder Reactors like the PFBR

• Additional capacity will come from Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) and Bharat Small Reactors, in collaboration with the private sector

A Vision for Energy Security

The successful commissioning of the PFBR will be a historic moment for India’s nuclear energy program. It represents not just a technological breakthrough but a significant step toward energy independence, reduced carbon emissions, and efficient fuel use.

By embracing advanced reactor technologies and closing the nuclear fuel cycle, India is laying the foundation for a cleaner and more sustainable energy future.