According to a senior official, India’s first indigenously developed 700 MW nuclear power reactors at the Kakrapar Atomic Power Project (KAPP) in Gujarat have commenced commercial operations. The official stated, “With great pleasure, this is to inform that our first indigenous 700 MWe Unit, KAPP-3, has become commercial on 30th June 2023 at 1000 Hrs.” Currently, the reactor is operating at 90 percent of its total power capacity.
The Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL) is responsible for constructing two 700 MW pressurized heavy water reactors (PHWRs) at the Kakrapar site, which already houses two 220 MW power plants. Officials have reported that various commissioning activities are ongoing at KAPP 4, which had achieved a progress rate of 96.92 percent by the end of May.
Furthermore, the NPCIL has planned the construction of sixteen 700 MW PHWRs across India and has received financial and administrative approval for the same. The development of 700 MW nuclear power plants is also underway at Rawatbhata in Rajasthan (RAPS 7 and 8) and Gorakhpur in Haryana (GHAVP 1 and 2).
In line with government decisions, ten indigenously developed PHWRs are slated for construction in fleet mode at four locations: Gorakhpur in Haryana, Chutka in Madhya Pradesh, Mahi Banswara in Rajasthan, and Kaiga in Karnataka.
The successful commencement of commercial operations at India’s first domestically built 700 MW nuclear reactor marks a significant milestone in the country’s nuclear energy development. With more reactors under construction and plans for further expansion, India is steadily advancing its capabilities in nuclear power generation.
As the nation continues to focus on clean and sustainable energy sources, these indigenously developed reactors play a crucial role in meeting the growing demand for electricity while reducing reliance on fossil fuels. The achievement at the Kakrapar Atomic Power Project (KAPP) in Gujarat reflects India’s commitment to harnessing nuclear energy for the nation’s progress and energy security.
Source: Myind