NEW DELHI: Marking a monumental achievement, India’s inaugural indigenously developed 700 MW nuclear power plant, located in Gujarat’s Kakrapar, has successfully commenced operations at its full capacity. Prime Minister Narendra Modi made the announcement on Thursday, signifying a significant milestone in the country’s energy landscape. The reactor at the Kakrapar Atomic Power Project (KAPP) had initially commenced commercial operations on June 30; however, it had been functioning at 90 percent capacity until this point.

Prime Minister Modi took to ‘X,’ formerly known as Twitter, to share the momentous news: “India achieves another milestone. The first largest indigenous 700 MWe Kakrapar Nuclear Power Plant Unit-3 in Gujarat starts operations at full capacity. Congratulations to our scientists and engineers.”

The Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL) has undertaken the construction of two 700 MW pressurized heavy water reactors (PHWRs) at Kakrapar. This site also hosts two 220 MW power plants, contributing to the nation’s energy generation capacity.

While KAPP 4 has been making substantial progress, achieving 97.56 percent completion by July through various commissioning activities, the NPCIL has ambitious plans. The organization aims to erect 16 more 700 MW PHWRs across the country and has already provided the necessary financial and administrative approvals for the project.

Expanding India’s nuclear power capabilities, ongoing efforts are focused on constructing 700 MW nuclear power plants in Rawatbhata, Rajasthan (RAPS 7 and 8), and Gorakhpur, Haryana (GHAVP 1 and 2). The government has further authorized the construction of 10 indigenously developed PHWRs at four strategic locations: Gorakhpur in Haryana, Chutka in Madhya Pradesh, Mahi Banswara in Rajasthan, and Kaiga in Karnataka.

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This accomplishment underscores India’s growing self-reliance in the field of nuclear power technology and reinforces the nation’s commitment to sustainable energy solutions.

Key Highlights:

  • Historic Milestone: India’s first indigenous 700 MW nuclear power plant in Gujarat achieves full operational capacity.
  • Prime Minister’s Announcement: Prime Minister Narendra Modi shares the achievement on ‘X,’ formerly known as Twitter, applauding the scientists and engineers involved.
  • Progressive Plans: NPCIL is constructing two 700 MW PHWRs at Kakrapar and has plans for 16 more across the nation.
  • Ongoing Constructions: Additional 700 MW nuclear power plants are being developed in Rajasthan and Haryana.
  • Strategic Expansion: The government has approved the building of 10 indigenously developed PHWRs at key locations.

The inauguration of India’s indigenously developed 700 MW nuclear power plant in Gujarat showcases the nation’s technological prowess and dedication to advancing its energy sector. This achievement paves the way for further strides in sustainable energy production, securing India’s future energy needs.