U.S. Firm Gets Clearance to Build N-Reactors in India | Current Affairs | Vision IAS
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U.S. Firm Gets Clearance to Build N-Reactors in India

Posted 31 Mar 2025

2 min read

The U.S. has approved Holtec International, a U.S.-based company, to design & construct nuclear reactors in India under restrictive US regulation called ‘10CFR810’.

  • It permits Holtec to transfer unclassified Small Modular Reactor (SMR) technology to 3 Indian private entities. The approval is valid for 10 years & will be reevaluated every 5 years.
  • The use of technology and information is subject to ‘peaceful nuclear activities’ under International Atomic Energy Agency safeguards & not for any military purpose.

Significance

  • Advancement of India-US 123 Agreement (2008): 123 Agreement is about cooperation for peaceful uses of nuclear energy.
  • Boosting Private Sector Participation: Encourages private entities to develop SMRs, expanding India’s nuclear capabilities.
  • Enhancing India's Nuclear Expertise: Supports localization of SMR manufacturing and strengthens India's role in the global SMR market.

Challenges for Private Sector Participation in Nuclear Sector

  • Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act, 2010: It has deterred foreign players from investing in the nuclear sector. 
  • Atomic Energy Act 1962: Restricts nuclear power generation to state-owned entities and does not allow private companies to operate nuclear power plants as independent operators.

Small Modular Reactor (SMR)

  • They are advanced nuclear reactors that have a power capacity of up to 300 MW(e) per unit.
  • Advantages: 
    • Reduced Fuel Requirements: SMR-based power plants need refueling every 3 to 7 years, unlike conventional plants, which require it every 1 to 2 years.
    • Adaptability: SMRs are adaptable and can be scaled up/down to supply more or less power.
    • Safety Features: Extensive use of passive safety features in SMR designs.
  • Tags :
  • Nuclear Energy
  • Nuclear Reactors
  • India-US Civil Nuclear Deal
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