NTPC is exploring the construction of small modular reactors (SMRs) to replace its aging thermal power plants, marking the first proposal of its kind since the country began to open its previously restricted nuclear sector, according to a recent tender document. The state-run company is seeking consultants to conduct feasibility studies for SMRs, which feature simpler designs than traditional large nuclear plants and can be scaled to meet demand.
NTPC primarily operates coal-fired plants and aims to identify those that can be retired within the next five years, ideally replaced by SMRs. In February, reports indicated that NTPC was in discussions with foreign firms, including those from Russia and the U.S., regarding SMR construction. Currently, NTPC has a coal power capacity of about 63 gigawatts (GW) through its joint ventures. Concurrently, India announced plans to amend its nuclear liability law to attract foreign and private investment, with a goal of increasing nuclear capacity from approximately 8 GW to at least 100 GW by 2047, all currently operated by the state-run Nuclear Power Corporation of India.
