Bharat Small Modular Reactors (BSRs)
Context:
The government is deliberating on a new nuclear bill to allow private sector participation in nuclear power generation.
A key part of this is the development of Bharat Small Modular Reactors.
Basics of BSRs:
BSRs are 220 MW Pressurized Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs).
These reactors are being upgraded to reduce land requirements that makes them easier to deploy.
Significance and Plan:
Industrial Decarbonisation:
BSRs are designed to be deployed near industrial hubs (like steel and aluminum plants) to serve as captive power plants.
This helps these industries reduce their carbon footprint.
Private Sector Partnership:
The development model involves private companies providing land, cooling water, and capital.
The Nuclear Power Corporation of India Ltd. (NPCIL) will be responsible for the design, quality assurance, operation, and maintenance of the reactors.
National Energy Goals:
This initiative is part of India's larger goal to install 100 GW of nuclear capacity by 2047 and meet its commitment to achieving 500 GW of non-fossil fuel-based energy by 2030.