6 Nuclear Power Stations in India A Comprehensive Overview

India has been steadily expanding its nuclear energy capacity to meet the growing demand for clean and sustainable power. Nuclear power plays a crucial role in India’s energy mix, helping reduce dependence on fossil fuels and lowering carbon emissions. This article provides an overview of six major nuclear power stations in India, highlighting their significance, capacity, and contribution to the nation’s energy security.

Tarapur Atomic Power Station (TAPS)

Tarapur Atomic Power Station, located in Maharashtra, is India’s first commercial nuclear power plant. Commissioned in 1969, TAPS currently operates two boiling water reactors (BWRs) and two pressurized heavy water reactors (PHWRs). The station has a total installed capacity of around 1,400 MW, making it a vital source of power for the western region of India. Tarapur has been a pioneer in India’s nuclear energy journey and continues to be a key player in the country’s nuclear infrastructure.

Rajasthan Atomic Power Station (RAPS)

Situated in Rajasthan, RAPS is one of the largest nuclear power complexes in India. It houses seven PHWR units with a combined capacity of approximately 1,180 MW. The station has been operational since the 1970s and has undergone multiple expansions and upgrades. RAPS plays an essential role in powering the northern and western grids and supports India’s goal of increasing nuclear power’s share in the energy mix.

Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant (KKNPP)

Located in Tamil Nadu, Kudankulam is one of the newest and most advanced nuclear power plants in India. It features Russian-designed VVER-1000 pressurized water reactors and currently operates two units with a total capacity of 2,000 MW. Kudankulam is significant for its modern technology, safety features, and large capacity, contributing substantially to the southern regional power supply.

Kakrapar Atomic Power Station (KAPS)

The Kakrapar Atomic Power Station in Gujarat operates PHWR reactors and has a current capacity of about 880 MW with two units. It has been operational since the mid-1990s and is undergoing expansion with additional units under construction. KAPS is essential for meeting the electricity demands of western India and supports industrial growth in the region.

Madras Atomic Power Station (MAPS)

Located in Tamil Nadu, MAPS consists of two PHWR units with a combined capacity of around 440 MW. Commissioned in the 1980s, it is one of the older nuclear facilities but continues to contribute reliably to the southern grid. MAPS also serves as a training center for nuclear scientists and engineers, fostering expertise in the field.

Narora Atomic Power Station (NAPS)

Narora Atomic Power Station, situated in Uttar Pradesh, operates two PHWR units with a total capacity of 440 MW. Commissioned in the late 1980s, NAPS plays a vital role in supplying power to the northern region of India. The plant is known for its operational efficiency and safety standards.

India’s nuclear power stations are pivotal in supporting the country’s energy security and sustainable development goals. The six key plants—Tarapur, Rajasthan, Kudankulam, Kakrapar, Madras, and Narora—represent a mix of older and newer technologies, each contributing significantly to regional and national power grids. As India continues to invest in nuclear energy, these stations will remain integral to reducing carbon emissions and ensuring a stable electricity supply for the future. With ongoing expansions and technological advancements, India’s nuclear power sector is poised for robust growth in the coming decades.