Maharashtra has taken a significant step towards advancing its nuclear energy capabilities by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Russia's state-owned nuclear energy company, Rosatom. The agreement, signed in the presence of Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, aims to develop a Small Modular Reactor (SMR) using thorium fuel.
The primary goal is to jointly develop and commercialise thorium-based SMRs in Maharashtra, adhering to safety standards set by the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB). This initiative will help establish an assembly line for thorium reactors under the 'Make in Maharashtra' initiative, promoting local manufacturing and job creation.
The Maharashtra Institution for Transformation (MITRA) will provide strategic support for the project, ensuring effective coordination and research collaboration. A joint working group will be formed, comprising representatives from MahaGenco, Rosatom Energy Projects, MITRA, and Global Technology Alliance, to oversee project execution.
Thorium is more abundant in India than uranium, making it a strategic choice for long-term energy security.
Utilising thorium can reduce dependence on imported fuels, enhancing energy self-sufficiency.
SMRs are designed to be safer and more efficient, requiring less space and offering easier maintenance compared to traditional nuclear reactors.
They can be manufactured in factories and transported to sites, reducing construction time and costs.
India aims to achieve 100 GW of nuclear power capacity by 2047. This partnership with Rosatom aligns with India's broader strategy to expand its nuclear energy sector through innovative technologies like SMRs. Rosatom has been a key partner in India’s nuclear energy expansion, notably through its involvement in the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant in Tamil Nadu.