SMRs are miniaturised versions of large nuclear power plants, producing nuclear energy up to 300 MWe per module, about one-third of traditional nuclear power reactors (IAEA).
SMRs of India
- While SMRs are an entirely new concept, Bharat Small Reactors (BSRs) are based on India's existing PHWR (Pressurized Heavy Water Reactor) technology.
- 3 SMRs models being developed by Department of Atomic Energy (DAE):
- Bharat Small Modular Reactor (BSMR) 200MWe: Indigenously developed by Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) (unit of DAE and Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL).
- Based on PWR technology; slated to utilise Slightly Enriched Uranium (SEU) as fuel to be constructed at Tarapur Atomic Power station site, Maharashtra.
- SMR-55MWe: Also modelled on PWR technology, featuring a block-type, highly modular design to be constructed at Tarapur.
- Up to 5 MWth High temperature gas cooled reactor: Meant for hydrogen generation to be constructed at BARC Vizag, Andhra Pradesh.
- Bharat Small Modular Reactor (BSMR) 200MWe: Indigenously developed by Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) (unit of DAE and Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL).
Significance of SMRs for India
- Modular: Can be manufactured in factory parts and assembled at designated site reducing gestation period and bringing economies of scale.
- Scalability: Deployed Incrementally as per increased energy demand.
- Safer: Inherent and passive safety features entailing no human intervention to shut down the system.
- Others: Low carbon energy; cater to higher energy demand in the wake of rise Artificial Intelligence, etc.
India’s Nuclear Push
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