NEW DELHI: In a significant advancement for India's nuclear energy programme, the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) has granted permission for “major equipment erection” at Units 5 and 6 of the Kudankulam nuclear power plant (KKNPP). The approval, issued on April 30, marks a crucial transition from civil construction to core plant development, allowing the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Ltd (NPCIL) to install vital reactor components such as the reactor pressure vessel, steam generators, and coolant pumps.
Landmark Progress at Kudankulam
NPCIL hailed the development as a decisive milestone for India's nuclear energy programme. In a statement on X, the corporation said, “Landmark progress at Kudankulam. India's nuclear energy programme achieves another decisive milestone.” It further emphasized that the approval followed comprehensive multi-tier safety reviews by AERB, reaffirming adherence to stringent national regulations and global benchmarks, including International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) standards.
Multi-Tier Safety Review
The Department of Atomic Energy elaborated that the permission was issued after satisfactory completion of a multi-tier safety review of the units' design against the safety requirements specified by AERB. Additionally, an assessment of the progress of civil construction activities under the earlier permission granted in April 2021 for “First Pour of Concrete” (FPC) was conducted. This ensures that all safety protocols are rigorously followed before proceeding with equipment erection.
Overview of Kudankulam Project
The Kudankulam project site comprises six units of pressurised water reactors of VVER design, established in technical collaboration with the Russian Federation. Units 1 and 2 have been operational since 2013. Units 3 and 4 are in an advanced stage of development, for which AERB had previously issued permission for major equipment erection. The latest approval for Units 5 and 6 underscores the steady progress of India's nuclear power expansion.
This development is expected to significantly boost India's nuclear energy capacity, contributing to the country's energy security and clean energy goals. The use of VVER reactors, known for their safety and efficiency, aligns with India's commitment to adopting advanced nuclear technology while ensuring the highest safety standards.
