Strategic Expansion of Nuclear Energy Essential for India's Development and Net Zero Goals

A recent study by IIM Ahmedabad highlights the pivotal role of nuclear energy in achieving India's development ambitions and net zero carbon dioxide emissions by 2070. With nuclear energy currently constituting a mere 1.6% of India's energy portfolio, significant investment and expansion are necessary.

Key Findings from the Study:

• Energy Mix Scenarios: Exploration of various growth and energy mix scenarios including high economic growth, emphasis on nuclear energy, fossil fuels with carbon capture, and renewable energy focus.

• Nuclear Energy's Role: For a net zero scenario by 2070, nuclear power needs to increase to 30 GW by 2030 and 265 GW by 2050, marking a substantial rise from its current contribution.

• Comparative Energy Shares: A shift in energy share, with nuclear power aiming for 30% by 2050, while the reliance on solar power adjusts from 42% in 2030 to 30% in 2050.

Challenges and Requirements:

• Uranium Availability: Successful nuclear expansion hinges on overcoming international restrictions on uranium, a crucial but limited resource.

• Investment Needs: Doubling investments in nuclear energy infrastructure is imperative to meet the envisioned growth.

• Coal Dependency: Despite the shift towards nuclear, coal is expected to remain a backbone in the energy system, necessitating phasedown plans and alternative energy infrastructures.

Strategic Recommendations:

• Infrastructure Development: Building adequate nuclear power infrastructure, alongside flexible grids and storage systems, is crucial for integrating renewable energy sources.

• Financial Planning: An estimated investment of ₹150-200 lakh crore is required from 2020-2070 to facilitate these energy transitions.

Additional Information to Remember:

• This study underscores the complexity of achieving net zero emissions, advocating for a diverse technology mix in India's future energy landscape.

• The transition to a greener energy mix, with a significant role for nuclear power, represents both a challenge and an opportunity for India's sustainable development and climate goals.

Keywords to Remember:

• Net Zero Emissions: Achieving a balance between the amount of greenhouse gases emitted and the amount removed from the atmosphere.

• Nuclear Energy Expansion: Increasing nuclear power capacity to reduce carbon emissions and support sustainable development.

• Renewable Energy Integration: Incorporating solar, wind, and other renewable sources into the energy mix to achieve environmental and development targets.

Reason it's important : Nuclear power is key to development, says study

Published in : The Hindu

Date appeared in newspaper : 04 April 2024

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