India's indigenous nuclear reactor at Kakrapar reaches full capacity, boosting national energy goals
- In Reports
- 10:42 PM, Aug 21, 2024
- Myind Staff
India's second indigenous 700 MW nuclear power reactor at the Kakrapar Atomic Power Station (KAPS) in Gujarat has reached full operational capacity, according to the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL). The plant operator confirmed that Unit 4, which had been functioning at 90% capacity, has now been successfully ramped up to its full output of 700 MWe.
"The full power operation of KAPS-4 after the smooth operation of its twin unit KAPS-3 at full power demonstrates the strength of the first of a kind indigenous 700 MW Pressurised Heavy Water Reactor (PHWR) design," the NPCIL said.
The KAPS-4 unit first achieved criticality on December 17, 2023, and began commercial operations on March 31, 2024. The power level of the unit has been progressively increased, in accordance with approvals from the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB).
India is currently constructing 14 additional 700 MW nuclear power reactors of the same design, with plans for them to become operational gradually by 2031-32. The NPCIL currently manages a fleet of 24 reactors with a combined capacity of 8,180 MW and has eight more units under construction, totalling 6,800 MW in capacity.
Additionally, pre-project activities are underway for 10 more reactors with a combined capacity of 7,000 MW. These projects are expected to be completed in phases, bringing India’s total installed nuclear power capacity to 22,480 MW by 2031-32, according to NPCIL.
The successful commissioning of these reactors underscores India's increasing self-reliance in nuclear technology, in line with the Atma Nirbhar Bharat initiative.
Image source: The Hindu
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