Conversion of Ageing Coal Power Sites to Nuclear Energy Hubs

planned

India is advancing plans to convert ageing coal-fired power plant locations into nuclear energy hubs. A government-appointed panel has shortlisted at least three retired thermal power sites for potential nuclear reactor projects as part of the strategy to expand nuclear generation capacity from 8.8 GWe to 100 GWe by 2047, reducing dependence on coal-based infrastructure. The site assessment was conducted by a sub-committee of the Central Electricity Authority, including representatives from the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board and Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited. Two sites are suitable for 700 MWe reactors, and one for 220 MWe units. The project faces challenges such as mandatory nuclear exclusion zones and water supply issues at some sites. The government is also considering reducing exclusion zone requirements and has initiated a second phase of screening for thermal plants aged 30-40 years.