Russian President Vladimir Putin’s visit to India was not limited to just strategic and defense cooperation. After this visit, a new focus has emerged on South India’s largest nuclear power project, Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant (KKNPP). The indications received in India-Russia talks show that this project may gain momentum in the coming times. Also, big steps can be taken towards new reactors, technical cooperation and increasing energy production capacity.
Why was nuclear cooperation important in Putin’s visit?
Apart from defence, the main pillar of relations between India and Russia is also civil nuclear energy. During Putin’s visit, both the countries have agreed to take this cooperation further. The biggest example of this is Russia’s partnership in the Kudankulam plant, which is India’s largest nuclear project.
What’s new in Kudankulam?
Unit-1 and Unit-2 of the plant are already producing electricity, but the discussion increased because it has been agreed to speed up the work of Unit-3 and Unit-4. Technical teams have received additional clearance for the construction of Unit-5 and Unit-6. There have been indications of fast-tracking the delivery of some pending Russian supplies and equipment. Russia has also shown interest in providing advanced VVER reactor technology in the future.
6000 MW power generation capacity
A total of 6 plants are to be built under the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Project. One plant produces 1000 MW electricity. Two plants are operational. That means 2000 MW electricity is being produced. If all the plants become operational, six thousand megawatts of electricity will be produced. From this perspective, Delhi requires 8 thousand MW of electricity even during peak hours in summer. That means, if all the plants of Kudankulam Nuclear Power Project become operational, many cities can get 24 hours electricity.
How is this plant important for energy security?
Considering India’s increasing electricity demand, big nuclear projects like Kudankulam are important. A total of 2000 MW electricity is being provided from KKNPP in the first two phases and after the next 4 units the capacity will become 6000 MW.
geopolitical reasons
Immediately after Putin’s visit, discussion on this project increased because India-Russia nuclear cooperation remains strong despite Western countries’ sanctions on Russia. Russia is giving priority to India as an energy partnership. India is looking at this by linking it with its long-term energy security mission.
Activities increased at local level also
A new team of Russian technicians has reached Kudankulam area in Tamil Nadu. Activities have increased at construction sites. NPCIL has developed many contract fast-tracks. These signals have attracted the attention of media and energy experts.
Now what next?
According to experts to nuclear power, Unit-3 and Unit-4 are likely to be operational in the next one year. India and Russia can together plan new advanced reactors. A major decision is possible on technology transfer and indigenization.
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