India and France signed a declaration on February 12 to partner in developing advanced and small modular nuclear reactors for civil use during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to France, reported Reuters.
Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron emphasised on nuclear energy for strengthening energy security while transitioning towards a low-carbon economy. Such reactors can be built in factories and transported to locations where they can be assembled and installed, according to BBC.
This partnership follows closely after India’s announcement to amend its strict Civil Liability for Nuclear Damages Act and the Atomic Energy Act. The amendments shift accountability from government to the operators, a move that has been blamed for delays in previous nuclear projects.
Modi is also expected to discuss potential nuclear investments by US firms during his visit to Washington on February 13, as part of effort to strengthen India’s nuclear sector.
India’s Net-Zero Goals
India has ambitious goals to expand its nuclear power capacities to help reduce carbon emissions. India plans to install 100 gigawatts of nuclear power by 2047, sufficient to power 60 million Indian homes a year. This is part of India’s aim to reduce its dependence on fossil fuels, mostly coal which still accounts for over 75% of its electricity generation.
To support these goals, India has pledged over $2 billion for nuclear research and is making legal reforms to attract investment in the sector, according to Associated Press.
Energy experts argue that nuclear power is needed for the world to shift away from carbon-polluting fuels like coal, oil and gas, since other renewable sources like solar and wind energy are not always available. However, some remain skeptical of India’s ambitions, citing the country’s small nuclear sector and persistent negative public perceptions about the industry, as per Associated Press.
India has made progress in expanding its nuclear energy capacity, having doubled the installed capacity in the last decade. However, nuclear power still accounts for just 3% of India’s total electricity. For the sector to grow, experts believe that India needs to address public concerns and build trust within local communities.
