New Delhi: State-run NTPC Limited has floated an Expression of Interest (EoI), inviting global companies for co-operation in indigenising Pressurised Water Reactor (PWR) technology and establishing large-capacity (1000 MW and above) PWR-based Nuclear Power Plants (NPPs) in the country on concept to commissioning basis. NTPC is targeting developing capacity of around 15 GW (plus-minus 10 percent).
“This EOI is to assess prospects of vendor base for indigenising Pressurised Water Reactor (PWR) technology for establishing large-capacity (1000 MW & above) Nuclear Power Plants (NPPs) in India,” said NTPC in the tender document. Based on the interest received, a global tender shall be floated subject to approval by the government, it added.
Recognising the critical need for technological advancement and domestic capability development in the nuclear sector, NTPC aims to indigenise Pressurised Water Reactor (PWR) technology, said the Maharatna PSU. “This move is aligned with the national objective of self-reliance in nuclear technology and localisation of the nuclear power plant supply chain. By fostering collaboration with global nuclear vendors, NTPC seeks to establish a robust domestic ecosystem for PWR-based nuclear power generation in India,” said the tender document.
“India is committed to expanding its nuclear energy capacity to achieve the Government of India's ambitious target of 100 GW of nuclear power generation by 2047. This initiative is an essential step toward ensuring energy security, reducing dependency on fossil fuels, and addressing the rising energy demand in a sustainable manner. Furthermore, India has pledged to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2070, and nuclear energy plays a crucial role in decarbonising the power sector by providing a stable and low-carbon source of electricity,” said the tender document.
The framework for co-operation includes transfer of technology, minimum 60 percent indigenisation of components for the first reactor unit and progressively increase to more than 95 percent for the last reactor unit, ensuring a steady transition to self-sufficiency in nuclear technology, establishment of domestic manufacturing capabilities, lifetime fuel supply commitment, etc.