MSPGCL signs MoU with Rosatom for thorium-based small modular reactors

The Maharashtra State Power Generation Company Limited (MSPGCL) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Russia’s Rosatom State Atomic Energy Corporation on April 11, 2025, for the joint development of small modular reactors (SMRs) using thorium fuel. 

The project will mark a potential first for any state government entering the nuclear energy space, which has traditionally been under the purview of the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE).

The agreement outlines the objective to develop thorium reactors in Maharashtra, commercialise them according to the safety standards of the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB), and establish a manufacturing line under the ‘Make in Maharashtra’ initiative.

A joint working group will be set up to oversee research and coordination. It will include representatives from Mahagenco, Rosatom Energy Projects, Maharashtra Institution for Transformation (MITRA), and the Global Technology Alliance.