TERI Releases SMR Deployment Report to Support India’s Nuclear Energy Transition

India’s nuclear energy ambitions received a fresh push as The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI) released a new report titled, 'India’s Nuclear Energy Vision: Strategic Pathways for SMR Deployment', highlighting the role of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) in supporting the country’s long-term energy security, industrial expansion, and decarbonisation goals.

The report was unveiled at a high-level event held in New delhi, bringing together policymakers, government officials, industry leaders, researchers, and international nuclear experts to discuss the future of nuclear power in India’s clean energy transition.

The study outlines regulatory, institutional, and market reforms needed to accelerate India’s nuclear expansion, with a strong focus on enabling SMR deployment. It also stresses the need for skilled workforce development, adaptive regulations, public engagement, and increased private sector participation to build a competitive nuclear ecosystem.

Speaking at the event, Dr Vibha Dhawan said India’s vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat must include an energy system that is “resilient, secure, and less dependent on external vulnerabilities.” She noted that emerging technologies such as SMRs could strengthen energy security while supporting industrial growth and clean energy targets.

The report overview was presented by Dr Arunendra K Tiwari, while contextual remarks were delivered by K Ramanathan. Delivering the special address, Dr P K Mishra emphasised that clean energy is central to India’s economic growth and national resilience strategy. He stated that nuclear energy can reduce import dependence, enhance strategic autonomy, and provide reliable clean power at scale.

Senior officials from the nuclear and power sectors also underlined the growing importance of nuclear energy in balancing India’s rapidly expanding renewable energy capacity. Ghanshyam Prasad noted that nuclear power could play a key role in meeting demand during non-solar hours and support emerging sectors such as data centres, green hydrogen, and green ammonia.

Dr Garima Sharma highlighted the significance of the SHANTI Act, calling it a major reform that broadens participation from public sector undertakings and private industry in India’s proposed 100 GW nuclear energy mission.

Meanwhile, Dr. G Vaidyanathan stressed the need to reduce regulatory delays, strengthen public trust, and expand technical training capabilities to support faster nuclear deployment.

The event also featured a panel discussion on governance, financing, and implementation pathways for SMRs. Panelists included representatives from NTPC Ltd., World Nuclear Association, Larsen & Toubro, and Westinghouse Electric Company, reflecting growing industry interest in India’s nuclear expansion roadmap.