India’s 1st domestically developed 700-MWe nuclear power plant in Gujarat’s Kakrapar has begun full-capacity operations, a major milestone for the country’s nuclear power program. Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated the scientists and engineers who made this possible, calling it a “remarkable achievement.”
A Milestone in India’s Nuclear Energy Advancements
India’s first indigenous 700-MWe nuclear power plant in Kakrapar, Gujarat, has started full-capacity operations, a major milestone in the country’s efforts to boost nuclear energy production.
The plant, which is expected to generate enough electricity to power over 700,000 homes, is a significant step forward for India’s energy security and will help to reduce the country’s dependence on fossil fuels.
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Unlocking Full Capacity
Previously, the reactor at the Kakrapar Atomic Power Project began its commercial operations on June 30th, but it operated at 90% of its full capacity.
Now, it has reached its maximum potential, generating 700 MW of clean and reliable electricity.
Prime Minister Modi took to social media, formerly known as Twitter, to share the news and express his congratulations to the dedicated scientists and engineers behind this achievement.
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The Vision for India’s Nuclear Energy
The Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL) headquartered in Mumbai has been diligently working on constructing two pressurized heavy water reactors (PHWRs) capable of generating 700 megawatts each in Kakrapar.
These reactors are in addition to the two existing power plants of 220 MW in the same region. This project is part of NPCIL’s grand vision to deploy 16 of these 700 MW PHWRs across the nation, a commitment that has received both financial and administrative approvals.
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Expanding Nuclear Energy Across the Country
The Kakrapar project is not the sole endeavor of NPCIL. Similar developments are underway in Rawatbhata, Rajasthan (RAPS 7 and 8), and Gorakhpur, Haryana (GHAVP 1 and 2), where 700 MW nuclear power plants are being constructed.
Presently, NPCIL operates 23 commercial nuclear power reactors with a combined capacity of 7480 megawatts.
This fleet comprises two Boiling Water Reactors (BWRs), 19 Pressurized Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs), including a smaller 100 MW PHWR in Rajasthan owned by the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) of the Government of India, and two 1000 MW VVER reactors.
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The Kakrapar Atomic Power Project’s Recent Success
The Kakrapar Atomic Power Project (KAPP) Unit 3, one of NPCIL’s latest projects, began commercial operations on June 30, 2023, and has now reached its full power capacity.
NPCIL is also actively working on the construction of nine more reactors, which will add a total capacity of 7500 MW to India’s nuclear energy infrastructure.
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India’s Nuclear Power Future
Prime Minister Modi’s announcement highlights India’s unwavering commitment to expanding its nuclear energy capabilities. NPCIL’s ongoing efforts to construct two 700 MW PHWRs in Kakrapar and additional projects across the country signify a significant step toward achieving the nation’s energy goals. The government has also greenlit the construction of 10 indigenously developed PHWRs at various locations, reinforcing India’s dedication to a sustainable and diversified energy future.
In conclusion, the successful operation of India’s first indigenous 700 MWe Kakrapar Nuclear Power Plant Unit-3 at full capacity is not just a technological feat but a testament to the nation’s commitment to cleaner and more abundant energy sources. As India continues to expand its nuclear energy infrastructure, it takes bold strides towards meeting its energy demands while reducing its carbon footprint.
