India's Nuclear Vision Takes Shape with PFBR Commissioning

India is set to achieve a key milestone in its nuclear energy programme with the expected commissioning of the country’s first Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR) by September 2026. Located in Kalpakkam, Tamil Nadu, the 500 MW reactor marks a critical step in the second phase of India’s three-stage nuclear power strategy—designed to recycle spent fuel, minimize radioactive waste, and ensure long-term energy sustainability.

Developed by Bharatiya Nabhikiya Vidyut Nigam Ltd (BHAVINI), the PFBR uses a plutonium-based mixed oxide (MOX) fuel and liquid sodium as a coolant, making it the first of its kind in India. It also utilizes spent fuel from the country’s prevalent Pressurised Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs). According to the Department of Atomic Energy, the reactor is in the advanced stages of integrated commissioning and is expected to achieve first criticality by 2025–26.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi marked a major milestone in March last year by witnessing the reactor’s core loading. The Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) had earlier approved fuel loading and low-power physics testing in July 2024.

PFBRs play a key role in India’s closed nuclear fuel cycle strategy. Their spent fuel will eventually feed thorium-based reactors, forming the third stage of India’s long-term nuclear roadmap. To accelerate this vision, the government has also launched a nuclear energy mission targeting 100 GW of power generation from nuclear sources.

Currently, India’s installed nuclear power capacity stands at 8.18 GW. Projects under construction or commissioning total 7.30 GW, with another 7.00 GW sanctioned and in pre-project stages—bringing the projected capacity to 22.48 GW by 2031–32.

BHAVINI will contribute 3.80 GW through additional Fast Breeder Reactors, while the remaining capacity is expected from Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) and advanced technologies developed in collaboration with private players.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.