NTPC to begin work on 2,800 MW nuclear project in Rajasthan

NTPC Ltd will enter the nuclear energy sector next month with the foundation stone for a 2,800 MW nuclear power project at Banswara, Rajasthan, Chairman and Managing Director Gurdeep Singh said on Sunday.

The project will include four pressurised heavy water reactors of 700 MW each. Singh said NTPC plans to expand its nuclear capacity to 30 GW by 2047.

The Mahi Banswara project is being developed as a joint venture with Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited, where NTPC holds a 49 per cent stake. The first unit is expected to be commissioned in 2031, and the entire plant by 2036.

NTPC also plans to set up nuclear projects independently in addition to the partnership with NPCIL. Singh said discussions are ongoing with Tata Consulting Engineers, L&T, EDF, Rosatom, Holtec, and other international consultants. He added that India could add nearly 10 GW of nuclear power capacity annually by 2036-37, with work progressing simultaneously at three or four sites. A dedicated mandatory zone has been identified for these plants.