State-owned NTPC is considering setting up two nuclear power units of 700 MW each in the Banka district of Bihar as part of its wider push to diversify its energy portfolio. The proposed project is expected to involve an investment of around ₹25,000 crore.
A government official said NTPC is currently carrying out a feasibility study for the twin 700-MW units in the district, situated around 250 km from Patna. The Bihar government has extended full support for the project, including ensuring water availability. Initial estimates indicate that nearly 1,000 acres of land may be required, though detailed financial specifics have not yet been disclosed.
According to industry norms, setting up a 1 GW nuclear power plant typically involves an investment of ₹15,000–20,000 crore and takes at least three years from the conceptual stage to commissioning. Following the completion of the feasibility study, a detailed project report (DPR) will be prepared, the official added.
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NTPC is targeting the development of around 30 GW of nuclear capacity across various sites in the country, in line with the government’s broader goal of achieving 100 GW of nuclear power capacity by 2047. The company is also aiming to add at least 2 GW of nuclear capacity by 2032.
Separately, NTPC is already executing a nuclear project through a joint venture with Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited in Rajasthan, with an estimated investment of approximately ₹42,000 crore.
With a total installed capacity of over 89,615 MW at the group level, NTPC has been steadily broadening its energy mix, spanning coal, gas and liquid fuels, hydroelectric, and solar power. Recent legislative changes aimed at boosting investment in the nuclear sector have further accelerated the company’s expansion plans in this domain.
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