Author: PPD Team Date: 20/03/2025
The Government of Andhra Pradesh (GoAP) has shown interest in setting up small nuclear power plants (NPPs) in the state. NTPC Limited has identified a potential site near Anakapalle and submitted a proposal to the state government. The government is also considering a joint venture (JV) with NTPC for the project.
During a discussion in the State Assembly, Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu emphasized the state’s willingness to explore emerging technologies like small nuclear power plants. He mentioned that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had recently discussed the matter with him. Naidu also noted that opting for smaller nuclear units could be more practical than large-scale plants.
Currently, Andhra Pradesh has no operational nuclear power plants. However, it has been exploring nuclear energy potential for years. The government has granted ‘in-principle’ approval for a site at Kovvada in Srikakulam district for setting up six Light Water Reactors (6 x 1,208 MW) in collaboration with the United States. According to the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL), the Term of Reference (TOR) for this project has been obtained from the Ministry of Environment & Forest (MoEF) for carrying out Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Studies. The EIA studies of this project are in the advance stage.
The Kovvada nuclear project, initially conceived in 1990, remained dormant until 2009. Between 2009 and 2012, feasibility studies were conducted, and in 2012, the state authorized land acquisition for the project. A total of 1,916 acres have been acquired, with compensation provided to most affected families.
The Union government confirmed in December 2024 that discussions with Westinghouse Electric Company were ongoing for the construction of six 1,000 MW reactors at Kovvada. Minister of State in the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) Jitendra Singh stated in Lok Sabha that 2,079.66 acres had been transferred to NPCIL for the main plant, while 190.7 acres were acquired for rehabilitation and resettlement.
Preliminary groundwork, including geotechnical studies, seismic assessments, and the construction of a boundary wall, is underway. Additionally, six micro-earthquake stations and a meteorological monitoring lab are being set up.