Adani Power plans 30,000 MW nuclear capacity

Adani Power Limited (APL) is planning to develop 30,000 MW of nuclear power capacity, aiming to replace its thermal power projects (TPPs) with nuclear power projects (NPPs). 

The TPPs will be phased out as their power purchase agreements (PPAs) conclude.

The coal-to-nuclear transition is gaining traction globally, with small modular reactors (SMRs) seen as a viable way to reuse old thermal plant sites. The U.S., Canada, Romania, and Poland are among the frontrunners in adopting this strategy. 

One of the leading projects is TerraPower’s Natrium reactor in Wyoming in the US, backed by Bill Gates, replacing a former coal plant. Ontario in Canada has been a leader in replacing coal with nuclear. In the 2000s, the province shut down its coal plants and expanded nuclear generation at its Bruce Power and Darlington nuclear stations, significantly reducing emissions.

In April 2024, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) released a guide for communities transitioning from coal to nuclear power. A technical study found that such transitions could create additional higher-paying jobs, boost local economies, and generate millions in increased revenue. It also highlighted that, with proper training, most coal plant workers could shift to nuclear plant jobs.

Old coal plants already have grid connections, water access, and trained workers, making it easier and cheaper to switch to nuclear. This reduces the cost and time needed to develop new energy projects from scratch. Coal plants provide baseload power, meaning they run continuously. Nuclear can directly replace this role, ensuring a steady power supply.

SMRs are easier to install in retired coal plant sites because they require less space. They can replace coal units one by one, allowing for a gradual transition rather than an abrupt shutdown.