India’s Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) aims to nearly double the country’s nuclear power capacity by 2029. DAE secretary and Atomic Energy Commission chairman, AK Mohanty, shared this plan during a press conference at Devi Ahilya Vishwavidyalaya.
Currently, India’s nuclear power capacity is around 8.2 gigawatts (GW), and in the next five years, the country targets expanding this to nearly 14 GW. By 2031-32, the goal is to reach 20 to 22 GW, with a long-term vision to achieve at least 100 GW by 2047.
Despite the ambitious growth, the expansion of nuclear power faces challenges, particularly in land acquisition. Nuclear plants require safe, suitable locations, away from populated areas and disaster-prone zones, while being near reliable water sources for cooling. These requirements have led to delays and opposition, particularly in Kerala, where proposed sites in Thrissur and Kasargod have faced environmental concerns, such as vulnerability to landslides.
India’s energy landscape is evolving, with 45% of its energy now sourced from non-fossil fuels, and a target of 50% by 2030.