The government will allow private companies to operate in the nuclear energy sector; more research will follow

Ongoing Legal Changes

Alleviating Nuclear Liability Legislation (Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act, 2010): Its aim is to restrict the liability of equipment suppliers in the event of a nuclear incident. Main Suggested Modifications:

Monetary Limit: Responsibility might be restricted to the initial contract amount.

Time Limit: Establish a statute of limitations regarding the duration of liability.

Amendment to the Atomic Energy Act of 1962: Its aim is to enable private and international entities to participate in nuclear power production.

Present Limitation: Only government-owned companies such as NPCIL and NTPC Ltd are permitted to run nuclear facilities.

Suggested Modification: Allow minority equity involvement by foreign/private organizations in future projects.

Requirement for the Modifications

NPCIL: The Atomic Energy Act of 1962 regulates India's nuclear industry, permitting only government-owned organizations like NPCIL to produce and provide nuclear power.

So far, the private sector has not participated in India's nuclear power industry.

International firms such as GE-Hitachi, Westinghouse, and Framatome have steered clear of India because of worries regarding open-ended liability.

It is essential to modify this in order to draw foreign investment and technology.

These actions seek to unleash the potential of the Indo-US Civil Nuclear Agreement, which was signed almost twenty years ago.

India aims to present these reforms as a component of a broader trade and investment strategy with the U.S., which could result in a trade agreement.

Recent Advancement in U.S. Regulations

Recently, the U.S. Department of Energy issued Holtec International a specific authorization (SA IN2023-001) in accordance with 10CFR810.

Implication: Holtec is now able to share unclassified SMR technology with Indian collaborators such as Tata Consulting Engineers and L&T.

This paves the way for the design and production of small modular reactors (SMRs) in India.

Importance: Enables India to collaboratively develop and produce nuclear components internally.

India's Requirement to Expand its Nuclear Capability:

Nuclear Capacity: India aims to raise its nuclear power capacity from 8,180 MW now to 22,480 MW by 2031-32 and ultimately reach 100 GW by 2047.

Energy Demand Growth: By 2047, India’s electricity requirement is projected to rise 4-5 times, and nuclear energy will support base-load demand in conjunction with renewables.

India’s Goals: To cut the emission intensity of its GDP by 44% by 2030 compared to the levels in 2005.

To reach a cumulative electric power installed capacity of 50% from non-fossil fuel energy sources by 2030.

Roadmap for 100 GW: A plan is being created in collaboration with stakeholders, and although obstacles are present, reaching the 100 GW goal is considered both challenging and attainable.

Conclusion

These changes indicate a significant transformation in India’s nuclear policy. By tackling legal and regulatory challenges, India is ready to:

• Open up to foreign investment and cutting-edge technology.
• Broaden its renewable energy collection by incorporating nuclear power.
• Strengthen strategic coordination with the U.S. within the civil nuclear framework.