Indian industries currently engaged in the manufacturing of parts and equipment for Pressurized Heavy Water Reactor (PHWR) designs are expected to participate in the production of critical equipment for Small Modular Reactors (SMRs). The localization of the manufacturing and supply chain for these advanced reactors is envisaged to align with the “Make in India” initiative, utilizing the domestic ecosystem established for nuclear power infrastructure.
Most critical equipment and components for the proposed SMRs are within the existing capabilities of Indian manufacturers. Specific components identified for production include special steel and heavy forgings for reactor pressure vessels, primary coolant pumps, heat exchangers, control rod drive mechanisms, and associated instrumentation and control systems. The Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) will provide technical handholding to industries to facilitate the manufacturing of these components.
Participation from the private sector is expected to be structured through Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) contracts to support the construction of SMRs. This approach aims to create a complete domestic ecosystem for manufacturing and the supply chain. Additionally, the technological know-how developed during this process may be leveraged for collaboration and business opportunities in international markets, as multiple countries plan to deploy SMR technology.
Incentives for private heavy industries include the potential for ownership of SMRs, as permissible under the Atomic Energy Act, and guaranteed rights over the green electric power generated. These captive plants are intended for energy-intensive sectors such as steel, cement, and process industries. The decarbonisation of these industries could assist in avoiding proposed carbon taxes on the export of goods.
The preferred technology for Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) is Light Water Reactor-based Pressurized Water Reactor (PWR) technology. Utilizing this platform, the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) has initiated the design and development of the 200 MWe Bharat Small Modular Reactor (BSMR-200) and the 55 MWe Small Modular Reactor (SMR-55). Targeted applications for these units include the repurposing of retiring fossil fuel-based power plants, off-grid deployments in remote locations, and the establishment of captive plants for energy-intensive sectors such as steel and cement.
Separately, BARC is developing a High Temperature Gas Cooled Reactor with a capacity of up to 5 MWth specifically for hydrogen generation, as the production process requires elevated temperatures. Research and development remains ongoing for the necessary high-temperature materials and reactor design to support this technology.
The Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) is a constituent unit of the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) responsible for nuclear research and the development of reactor technologies in India.
