India Builds 200 MW Nuclear Reactors to Power Ships

• India develops 200 MW reactors for ships, 55 MW for industries.
• BSMRs enhance nuclear mix; safe for maritime, industrial use.
• AEA amendments allow private entry, cap liabilities; 100 GW by 2047.

A senior official at the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) revealed that India is working on 200 MW compact nuclear power reactors that can be used on commercial ships. Additionally, 55 MW versions for the captive power needs of energy-intensive sectors like cement manufacturing are also being developed.

These Bharat Small Modular Reactors (BSMR) will be a key element in the nuclear energy capacity expansion of India, providing carbon-free and inherently safe solutions for maritime and industrial applications. The official said, "Heat for electricity is produced from nuclear fission, and it can be done anywhere, even on ships."

The reactors are presented as a very safe option, possibly being the energy source of merchant navy vessels and thus a means for cutting down fossil fuel use. At the moment, India has two domestically built nuclear submarines-INS Arihant and INS Arighaat-powered by 83 MW reactors, and INS Aridhaman is going through trials.

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This move is in line with the government's nuclear power capacity expansion plan. Changes to the Atomic Energy Act (AEA) 1962 will open the door for the private sector involvement in civil nuclear activities such as power plant operation and front-end fuel cycle management.

Private companies will be allowed to import fuel from other countries, with a provision for the return of spent fuel. Amendments to the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act (CLND) 2010 will limit the suppliers' liabilities according to the contract and consider 'supplier' as a provider of equipment that is essential but facilitates investment by easing the conditions.

By 2047, Prime Minister Narendra Modi intends to see nuclear energy generating 100 GW of power, whereas the capacity at present is only 8.8 GW. These reforms, made public recently, are expected to lead to increased innovation and self-sufficiency. India will be a technology leader in the nuclear field, conforming to the global trend of clean energy transition.