State-run power giant NTPC Ltd is set to submit its first feasibility study for a nuclear power project to the Department of Atomic Energy (Department of Atomic Energy) and seek regulatory approval to advance its entry into large-scale nuclear generation, sources said.
The approval process, if cleared, would mark a major milestone for NTPC Ltd (NTPC Ltd), enabling it to move ahead with its first standalone nuclear power project in India. The PSU is targeting at least 2 GW of nuclear capacity by 2032 as part of its broader diversification strategy.
The power generator, has so far not operated standalone nuclear power plants and is entering the sector through a joint venture with NPCIL and feasibility studies for future projects.
According to sources, NTPC has already completed feasibility studies in one state and is currently conducting similar assessments in two others. It has also received the Bihar government’s nod to carry out a feasibility study in Banka district.
“The company will be very soon submitting the completed feasibility study for the nuclear project in the state,” one of the sources said requesting anonymity, without disclosing site details due to sensitivity.
The studies, once submitted, will be examined by the Standing Site Selection Committee of the Department of Atomic Energy. If found technically viable, the proposal will be placed before the Atomic Energy Commission for further clearance.
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Another source said, “On an average, NTPC is looking to set up at least two units of 700 megawatt each in the states being explored for nuclear projects.”
NTPC is simultaneously working on feasibility assessments in additional states, including Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh, as part of a long-term plan to develop around 30 GW of nuclear capacity across at least 14 states. The investment is expected to run into several lakh crore rupees as India pushes towards its 100 GW nuclear capacity target by 2047.
Industry estimates suggest that setting up 1 GW of nuclear capacity requires ₹15,000–20,000 crore, with a gestation period of at least three years from concept to commissioning. Water availability and land—typically including a 1 sq km exclusion zone—remain critical factors in project planning.
NTPC currently has an installed capacity of 89,805.30 MW across coal, gas, hydro and solar segments. In the nuclear space, it is already developing a joint venture project with the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Ltd in Rajasthan under Anushakti Vidhyut Nigam Ltd, with NTPC holding a 49% stake.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone of the 4x700 MW Mahi Banswara Rajasthan Atomic Power Project in September last year, marking a key step in the country’s nuclear expansion roadmap.
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