Jitendra Singh says, Govt is exploring the options of collaborating with other countries and taking up indigenous development of Small Nuclear Reactors
On Wednesday, the Central government said it is working on new technologies such as Small Nuclear Reactors to fulfill its commitment to a clean energy transition.
Small capacity atomic power plants, popularly called Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), with their unique features of modularity, scalability, small footprint, and improved safety present themselves as an attractive option for repurposing of retiring coal-based thermal power station sites, Minister of State for Atomic Energy and Space Dr Jitendra Singh said in a written reply to a question in the Lok Sabha on Wednesday.
Deploying Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) across the country, especially in locations not suitable for large nuclear plants, can produce a large amount of low-carbon electricity. In order to move away from fossil fuel consumption, SMRs can be installed and operated for repurposing the aging fossil fuel-based power plants, he explained.
However, SMRs are not expected to serve as replacements for conventional large-sized nuclear power plants, which serve as base load plants.
Nuclear power plants are installed and operated in line with stringent regulatory requirements to contain radiation and to avoid exposure to the public in all circumstances. The techno-commercial aspects of SMRs are still in the initial stages even globally and their large-scale deployment depends on various factors, including regulatory harmonization globally by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), especially considering emergency planning zones and public acceptance, the statement added.
[With Inputs from IANS]
For all the latest updates, download PGurus App.
- Congress Ratlam candidate sparks row with bizarre poll promise; says ‘those with 2 wives will get Rs.2 lakh’ - May 10, 2024
- 1000 drones participate in show highlighting Kashi’s development; wins applause - May 10, 2024
- Congress veteran Mani Shankar Aiyar displays his love for Pakistan again; says India should respect them as it has atom bomb - May 10, 2024
Good decision, long pending.