Harnessing nuclear energy for India's energy security: Current status, challenges, and future opportunities

• Nuclear energy is vital for India's low-carbon energy future and energy security. • India's nuclear capacity aims to grow from 6780 MW to 22,480 MW by 2031. • Thorium-based reactors and SMRs offer scalable, efficient solutions for India's energy needs. • Key challenges include uranium supply, regulatory hurdles, and public opposition. • Strategic policy reforms and private sector involvement are crucial for nuclear energy expansion. India's escalating energy requirements, anticipated to surpass 2500 TWh by the year 2030, are primarily fulfilled through coal, which consequently leads to substantial carbon emissions and poses risks to energy security. This research endeavors to explore the function of nuclear energy as a viable, low-carbon substitute within the framework of India's energy transition. Notwithstanding its elevated capacity factor (>85 %), nuclear energy presently accounts for a mere 3 % of the nation's electricity generation as of 2024. The investigation presents a thorough evaluation of India’s nuclear infrastructure, which comprises 22 operational reactors (6780 MW) and strategic initiatives aimed at augmenting capacity to 22,480 MW by 2031. The study accentuates pivotal technological innovations such as Fast Breeder Reactors (FBRs), small modular reactors (SMRs), and the utilization of India’s vast thorium reserves (846,000 tonnes) as integral components of the three-stage nuclear program. It further analyzes obstacles, including constraints on the supply of uranium, rigorous regulatory frameworks, and societal opposition. Through an international comparative analysis and policy assessment, this research delineates pathways for the enhancement of nuclear development, encompassing regulatory reforms, public engagement strategies, increased investment in research and development (R&D), participation from the private sector, and fostering global collaboration. The results emphasize the essential role of nuclear energy in fulfilling India's net-zero emissions objective by 2070 while simultaneously bolstering energy security and fostering technological self-sufficiency. The reinforcement of nuclear infrastructure is crucial for the decarbonization of India’s power sector. This study proffers evidence-based recommendations to facilitate policy formulation, planning, and investment choices directed towards achieving a resilient and sustainable energy future.