Amitabh Kant, former CEO of NITI Aayog, has emphasized the transformative potential of small modular reactors (SMRs) in India’s journey toward clean energy and carbon neutrality. He outlined how SMRs could serve as an adaptable and strategic supplement to renewable energy, aiding in the global effort to reduce carbon emissions.

Kant highlighted that SMRs offer a scalable and flexible nuclear energy solution, which is especially beneficial for India given its unique geographic and economic landscape. Unlike traditional large-scale nuclear plants, SMRs are compact and can be deployed in varied locations, including remote areas, offering new avenues for distributed power generation.

“The recent government focus on SMRs demonstrates a transformative approach to nuclear energy. SMRs can align seamlessly with India’s clean energy goals while also addressing specific industrial and geographic needs across the nation,” Kant noted. He added that the development and deployment of SMRs could offer India a reliable alternative to meet energy demands in a sustainable way, complementing intermittent renewable sources like solar and wind.

India’s shift toward embracing SMRs aligns with global trends, as nations seek versatile and lower-risk nuclear options to bolster their renewable energy grids. The government’s increased attention to SMR technology reflects an understanding of nuclear energy’s role in achieving energy security while reducing emissions. With the flexibility and smaller footprint that SMRs offer, they represent an attractive energy solution for industries and communities across India.

In conclusion, Kant’s advocacy for SMRs underscores a critical opportunity for India to diversify its energy portfolio and accelerate its transition to cleaner energy, leveraging cutting-edge nuclear technology as a core component of its sustainable future.