Author: PPD Team Date: 19/03/2025
India has completed the concept design of the Bharat Small Modular Reactor (BSMR), moving it closer to deployment. Following approval, the reactor is expected to be constructed within 72 months.
BSMRs are modified versions of India’s 200 MWe pressurised heavy water reactors (PHWRs). They will use slightly enriched uranium as fuel and are being developed by a joint venture between the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) and the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL).
The Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) will oversee the manufacturing and delivery of critical components, with indigenous nuclear vendors supplying essential materials such as low-alloy steel forgings for the reactor pressure vessel.
BSMRs are intended for deployment in energy-intensive industries like steel, aluminium, and cement. They can also be used in remote areas and repurposed from decommissioned thermal power plants. The reactor technology will include passive safety features and engineered safety systems to ensure nuclear safety, including handling and in-situ storage of used fuel.
This development comes alongside the commissioning of Unit 7 of the Rajasthan Atomic Power Project (RAPP-7) at Rawatbhata. With strong government backing and growing private interest, India’s nuclear expansion is set to play a crucial role in achieving the country’s clean energy targets.