Nuclear power can bridge the gap

But these resources have their limitations. Even the most optimistic estimates of world energy organisations foresee only a small contribution from them in the overall energy scenario. It is for these reasons that the use of nuclear energy in India demands a serious re-examination.

In fact, there is a worldwide resurgence of interest in nuclear energy. The growing gap between energy demand and supply is making nations cautious in foreclosing this option. In the US, and in most European countries, where political parties had favoured a nuclear phase-out in the late 1990s, relevant decisions are now being deferred. At the same time, advancements in nuclear power technologies have made it possible to overcome some of the traditional disadvantages associated with them, such as large reactor sizes, long gestation periods, concern over reactor safety and issues relating to radioactive waste disposal.

The IAEA has itself launched an international project on Innovative Nuclear Reactors and Fuel Cycles for Sustainable Development to promote research on reactors that are safer, more economical, technologically easier to assimilate in relatively less developed countries and designed to minimise proliferation risks. For India, there are additional advantages. For one, its nuclear power programme has steadily progressed to augment indigenous electricity generation capability. A total of 14 nuclear power plants, with a combined installed generating capacity of more than 2720 MWe, are operational. While the percentage share of nuclear energy is still marginal — only 2.2 per cent — the scope for growth is immense.

Given India’s advanced nuclear research and development centres, engineering technologies and a large manpower with construction and operational expertise, nuclear energy could meaningfully supplement the country’s growing energy needs. Also, with huge indigenous thorium deposits, reportedly capable of sustaining 300,000 MWe of electricity generation over 300 years, it would be a national waste if nuclear energy is not exploited. A relative slackness in US and European nuclear markets has prompted nuclear plant manufacturers to look for potential markets in China and India. No new nuclear plants have been built in the US over the last decade, despite a rekindling of interest. Consequently, a recession-ridden nuclear industry is trying to influence the government to tone down its proliferation concerns for the sake of better nuclear commerce. Market forces could compel Western governments to accept a certain laxity in export controls. This is even more likely since in several reactor-exporting countries.

The present confluence of domestic needs and international factors, therefore, demand a fresh and serious look at nuclear power as a viable alternative source of energy.