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IAEA Chief Applauds India’s Small Nuclear Reactor Initiative
India’s move toward the development of small modular nuclear reactors has received strong endorsement from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). The agency’s Director-General, Rafael Mariano Grossi, praised India’s evolution from a technology importer to a nation building its own reliable nuclear reactors. Highlighting the country’s capability, he remarked that 20 indigenous reactors are currently operating without issues, showcasing India’s growing expertise in nuclear engineering.
Nuclear Energy Still Underutilized in India
Despite its success in reactor development, nuclear power still makes up a relatively minor share of India’s overall energy mix. Grossi expressed confidence in India’s ambitious target to reach 100 gigawatts of nuclear capacity, describing it as achievable with sustained effort and strategic planning. He noted that such progress could position India not just as a major domestic consumer of nuclear power but also as a potential exporter of nuclear technology in the global arena.
Public-Private Collaboration Seen as Key
India’s recent push to involve the private sector in nuclear energy development, especially in the small reactor segment, marks a policy shift with far-reaching implications. Grossi emphasized the need for innovative financial models to support the capital-heavy nature of nuclear energy. He welcomed the possibility of public-private partnerships and even private ownership of nuclear plants, particularly small modular reactors.
Describing these developments as “a huge step in the right direction,” Grossi acknowledged the significance of India’s policy evolution in nuclear energy and its broader role in global energy transition strategies. The endorsement from the IAEA adds momentum to India’s pursuit of clean, reliable, and scalable energy solutions in the face of rising demand and climate challenges.
