Indian Railways in Talks to Set Up Small Nuclear Power Plants for Clean Energy

Indian Railways is in discussions with the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) and the power ministry to explore the feasibility of setting up small nuclear power plants. This is aimed at meeting the railway network’s growing electricity demand while supporting its goal of achieving net zero emissions by 2030.

Land Allocation and Power Supply

As per the initial plan, Indian Railways will provide land for the nuclear plants, while DAE and the power ministry will oversee the establishment and fuel supply. Officials have confirmed that site identification has started, and discussions are underway regarding operational requirements.

Energy Procurement Strategy

Indian Railways plans to procure 3 GW of renewable energy, including hydropower, along with 3 GW of thermal and nuclear power by 2030. The remaining power requirement, especially for traction purposes, will be met through purchases from power distribution companies. The railway network’s total traction power demand is expected to reach 10 GW by the end of the decade.

Budget Allocation 

Funding for the nuclear projects is expected to come from public sector financing institutions, including the Indian Railways Finance Corporation (IRFC). Indian Railways previously explored nuclear energy collaboration in 2016, but financial constraints delayed the plan. The government has recently revived the focus on nuclear power, allocating ₹20,000 crore under the Nuclear Energy Mission to develop at least five Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) by 2033.

Conclusion

In response to a parliamentary query, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw confirmed that Indian Railways has approached the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL) and the power ministry regarding nuclear energy supply. He also noted the railway network’s increasing electricity needs and ongoing efforts to explore alternative power sources.

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