What is Bharat Small Reactor and how will It aid India’s transition to clean energy?
Produced by: Tarun Mishra Designed by: Manoj Kumar
Budget Announcement
In her Budget 2024 speech, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced plans to develop Bharat Small Reactors (BSRs) as part of India’s strategy to expand its nuclear energy capabilities.
Private Sector Partnership
The government plans to collaborate with the private sector to establish BSRs and conduct research on small modular reactors and new nuclear technologies, marking a significant shift in India’s nuclear policy.
Compact Nuclear Reactors
Bharat Small Reactors are compact nuclear reactors designed to generate electricity on a smaller scale compared to traditional large nuclear power plants. They are based on India’s 220-megawatt pressurised Heavy Water Reactor (PHWR) technology, with 16 units already operational.
Historic Policy Shift
The decision to involve the private sector in nuclear energy generation represents a historic shift, as the Atomic Energy Act of 1962 previously did not allow for private sector participation. This move is expected to open new avenues for financing and accelerate the growth of nuclear power in India.
Advantages of BSRs
BSRs offer several advantages over conventional large-scale nuclear plants. They are more flexible in terms of siting, can be deployed faster, and are potentially more cost-effective. These reactors could be particularly useful for providing power to remote areas or serving as captive power units for large industries like cement and steel.
Global Trends and Distinction
The development of BSRs aligns with global trends in nuclear energy, where small modular reactors (SMRs) are gaining attention. However, BSRs are based on India’s existing PHWR technology, unlike SMRs, which are factory-made and easily assembled.
Clean Energy Initiative
Sitharaman also announced plans for research and development of Bharat Small Modular Reactors (BSMRs), with ongoing design work at the Bhabha Atomic Research Center in Mumbai. This reflects India’s intention to explore newer nuclear technologies.
Energy Diversification
The emphasis on nuclear energy, including BSRs, is part of a broader strategy to diversify India’s energy mix and transition towards cleaner energy sources. Nuclear power is seen as a viable alternative to thermal power for providing baseload electricity.
Challenges and Future Steps
While the announcement has been welcomed by the scientific community, experts caution that integrating these new reactors into the electricity grid may take a few years. The government will need to create new policies and legal frameworks to enable private sector participation in nuclear energy generation. Addressing safety concerns, managing nuclear waste, and aligning BSR development with India’s broader energy and environmental goals will be crucial as the initiative progresses.