NTPC Limited, through its subsidiary NTPC Parmanu Urja Nigam Limited, is embarking on a significant expansion of its nuclear power generation capacity, targeting an ambitious 30 gigawatts (GW) by 2047. This push for cleaner energy involves identifying and developing new nuclear projects across the country.
Extensive Site Selection Underway
Jaikumar Srinivasan, Director Finance of NTPC Limited and NTPC Green Energy Limited, confirmed that the company is currently conducting site selection studies at 30 locations across eight Indian states. These states include Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Odisha, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Maharashtra. Preliminary studies are already underway in several of these regions, with water availability confirmed at some potential sites. The focus is on ensuring broad feasibility and ground-level readiness for future nuclear power plants.
Progress on Mahi Banswara Project
A key component of NTPC's nuclear strategy is the Mahi Banswara project in Rajasthan, which will feature four units of 700 megawatts (MW) each, totaling 2.8 GW. Significant milestones have been achieved for this project:
- Excavation Consent: The Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) granted excavation consent for Units 1 and 2 on March 18, 2026.
- Excavation Award: The excavation package for these units was awarded on September 13, 2025.
- Clearances: Environmental clearance was secured in May 2025, followed by a forest clearance amendment on June 20, 2025.
Looking ahead, the first pour of concrete for the Mahi Banswara project is anticipated by August 2027, with the first unit expected to synchronize with the grid by November 2032. An equity infusion of Rs 800 crores was made into ASHVINI by joint venture partners NPCIL and NTPC in January 2026 to support these developments.
Future Project Milestones
NTPC's broader plans also include major procurement activities. The Nuclear Island's Mega EPC (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction) Notice Inviting Tender (NIT) is expected by June 15, 2026. This will be followed by the Turbine Generator Island EPC NIT by March 30, 2027. The company anticipates commissioning one of these new units by 2032, with subsequent units following at approximately six-month intervals.