North India’s first nuclear power plant will be established in Gorakhpur, a small town in Haryana’s Fatehabad district, about 150 km from New Delhi. The project marks a key milestone in India’s push toward expanding nuclear energy capacity and achieving clean energy targets.
Key Highlights
Project Name: Gorakhpur Haryana Anu Vidyut Pariyojana (GHAVP)
- This nuclear power project will include two twin units of 700 MW each, i.e., GHAVP-1 & 2 (2×700 MW) and GHAVP-3 & 4 (2×700 MW).
- Total Planned Capacity: 2,800 MW, making it the first nuclear project in North India.
Current Status:
- Land acquisition has been completed.
- The environmental clearance is under renewal, with necessary safeguards in place to mitigate ecological risks and ensure safety.
Private Sector Participation: The government aims to accelerate nuclear power expansion by opening the sector to private investments, supporting India’s broader clean energy strategy.
Jaitapur Nuclear Power Plant in Maharashtra
The government has also reaffirmed its commitment to completing Jaitapur Nuclear Power Plant, which, once operational, will become India’s largest nuclear power facility.
Planned Capacity: 10,380 MW (with six reactors of 1,730 MW each)
Contribution to National Goal: It will account for 10% of India’s 100 GW nuclear energy target by 2047.
Environmental & Seismic Safety: The project’s location in a seismic zone raised initial concerns about marine life and local livelihoods. However, the government has consistently provided evidence-based studies proving that necessary safety measures are in place.
Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage (CLND) Framework
- Ensures operator responsibility for nuclear damage and sets up an insurance pool of ₹1,500 crore for financial security in case of any incident.
- India has aligned with global compensation mechanisms to further strengthen financial safeguards.
Significance of India’s Nuclear Expansion
Meeting Net-Zero Targets:
- With India aiming for net-zero emissions by 2070, the Gorakhpur and Jaitapur projects will play a vital role in the country’s clean energy transition.
- These projects align with India’s growing emphasis on diversifying its energy mix by focusing on nuclear, solar, and wind energy.
Energy Security and Capacity Building:
- The expansion of nuclear energy will reduce India’s dependence on fossil fuels and contribute to energy security, while boosting Make in India initiatives through domestic nuclear technology development.