New Delhi – India has achieved a significant breakthrough in its atomic energy program. The country’s most advanced nuclear reactor, the Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR) located at Kalpakkam in Tamil Nadu, has received approval from India’s atomic regulator to begin loading nuclear fuel. This approval marks a pivotal moment in India’s pursuit of self-reliant atomic energy, according to Dinesh Kumar Shukla, Chairman of the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB). Shukla emphasized that the PFBR is an “inherently safe reactor,” underscoring the importance of this milestone.
The PFBR’s fuel loading and subsequent initiation of a controlled chain reaction herald the use of plutonium as a nuclear fuel and, crucially, the first steps toward utilizing thorium as an atomic energy source. With limited reserves of uranium, India is turning to its substantial thorium reserves. Mastering the technology to use thorium as fuel could potentially ensure energy independence for the country, offering a sustainable energy solution that could last for over three centuries.
Unique Nature of Fast Breeder Reactors
Fast breeder reactors (FBRs) defy basic logic to the layperson, as they produce more fuel than they consume. The term “fast” refers to the use of high-energy fast neutrons. India already operates a Fast Breeder Test Reactor (FBTR) at Kalpakkam, which has been functional for 39 years. The PFBR, a 500MWe sodium-cooled reactor, represents a significant advancement in India’s nuclear power program.
The AERB has conducted extensive safety reviews and assessments through a multi-tier safety review mechanism, complemented by periodic inspections. This rigorous process has culminated in the approval for the PFBR to begin operations, with the potential to become fully operational within a few months.
In 2003, the Indian government approved the establishment of Bhartiya Nabhikiya Vidyut Nigam Ltd (BHAVINI) to construct and operate the PFBR. The reactor, developed over 20 years, has faced delays due to the complexity of the technology, which had to be mastered indigenously. The project has cost Rs 6,840 crore, surpassing its initial estimate of Rs 5,677 crore.
In line with the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative, the PFBR has been designed and constructed entirely by BHAVINI with significant contributions from over 200 Indian industries, including MSMEs. Once commissioned, India will join Russia as the only countries with commercially operating fast breeder reactors.
The PFBR will initially use Uranium-Plutonium Mixed Oxide (MOX) fuel. The reactor’s Uranium-238 “blanket” will undergo nuclear transmutation to produce more fuel, thus earning the name “breeder.” The use of Thorium-232 is also envisaged, which will create fissile Uranium-233 for use in the third stage of India’s nuclear program. The PFBR thus paves the way for utilizing India’s abundant thorium reserves fully.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inspected the PFBR on March 4, 2024, witnessing the ‘core loading’ process. The PFBR, an advanced third-generation reactor, incorporates inherent passive safety features ensuring prompt and safe shutdown in emergencies. The reactor also offers significant advantages in reducing nuclear waste and avoiding the need for large geological disposal facilities. Despite the advanced technology, the capital cost and per unit electricity cost are comparable to other nuclear and conventional power plants.
The growth of India’s nuclear power program is vital for achieving energy security and sustainable development. As a responsible nuclear power with advanced technology, India remains committed to expanding the peaceful applications of nuclear technology while ensuring the security of nuclear and radiological materials. Once the DAE gains confidence, two more fast breeder reactors will be constructed at Kalpakkam, further advancing India’s nuclear capabilities.
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