India’s goal of achieving 100 gigawatts (GW) of nuclear power capacity by 2047 will require significant reforms and a focused effort to address existing challenges, according to a report by SBICAPS.
This target supports the country’s broader commitment to attain net-zero carbon emissions by 2070. The report outlines several essential strategies for scaling up nuclear power capacity, emphasizing the need to streamline construction timelines, which currently average around 10 years per project—much longer than the global benchmark of approximately six years.
One of the key recommendations includes opening up the nuclear sector to greater foreign investment, such as permitting up to 49% Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in nuclear power generation, to attract increased capital. The report also stresses the importance of diversifying fuel sources through international agreements and accelerating the implementation of Stages 2 and 3 of India’s nuclear energy roadmap, particularly in light of the country’s limited uranium reserves.
At present, India has about 8 GW of installed nuclear capacity, with an additional 7 GW under construction. To reach the 100 GW milestone within the next two decades, a significant acceleration in development is essential. In response, the government has launched the Nuclear Energy Mission, allocating ₹200 billion for research, development, and the deployment of at least five Bharat Small Modular Reactors (BSMRs), as announced in the Union Budget. These BSMRs are expected to enable private sector participation in building Pressurized Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs) for dedicated captive use.
The SBICAPS report also notes that while countries like China are leading the global nuclear expansion—with around 30 GW of reactor capacity under development—India and Turkey are gradually increasing their investments in nuclear power. In contrast, Europe remains more cautious in its approach.
Highlighting the strategic and financial implications of India’s nuclear ambitions, the report aligns with recent remarks by Union Minister Jitendra Singh. In March, he underscored the crucial role of nuclear energy in achieving India’s net-zero target, affirming that while the journey involves challenges, the 100 GW goal by 2047 remains ambitious yet attainable with a clear roadmap and stakeholder collaboration.
