Power Shift: India Shortlists Thermal Sites for Nuclear Rebirth

India has shortlisted three ageing or retired thermal power plant sites for possible conversion into nuclear power projects, marking a significant step toward repurposing existing coal-based infrastructure for clean energy generation.

The selection process was carried out by a sub-committee constituted by the Central Electricity Authority, with participation from the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board and Nuclear Power Corporation of India.

Among the shortlisted locations, two sites are being evaluated for large 700 MWe nuclear reactors, while one site has been identified as suitable for smaller 220 MWe reactor units. The initiative forms part of India’s long-term objective to expand nuclear power generation capacity from 8.8 GWe to 100 GWe by 2047. The expansion is being supported through policy reforms introduced under the SHANTI Act, 2025, which enables greater private sector participation in the nuclear energy sector.

Officials noted that repurposing existing thermal power sites offers several advantages, including the availability of land, water access, and supporting infrastructure. However, regulatory requirements related to exclusion zones and water clearances continue to pose important challenges for project implementation.

Authorities also indicated that certain locations may ultimately be more suitable for small modular reactors (SMRs) because of spatial and infrastructure constraints. Additional phases of site evaluation are currently underway, with more thermal power plants being assessed for future nuclear deployment.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.